CEO Corner July 2022
7/17/2022
Just a few weeks ago, BBBSA held its annual National Conference, “Bigger Together 2022.” Staff, board members and volunteers from over 200 affiliates across the country came together to share best practices in child-safety and programing while celebrating the dedication of more than 3,500 staff and volunteers.
The conference kicked off honoring Juneteeth and concluded with a "Bigger Together" celebration, hosted by Multi-Platinum Recording Artist and Actress Jordin Sparks. Jordin and Nico, of musical duo Nico & Vinz, each performed their greatest hits. The night also included special performances from Alyssa Gaines, 2022 National Youth Poet Laureate and Ta'Korei.
We also paid tribute to a special member of the BBBS family whom we lost this year, BBBS ambassador, National Board Chair and JEDI Council Co-Chair, Cheslie Kryst. Cheslie’s mother, April Simpkins, helped us to remember Cheslie’s light and celebrate her legacy. The evening continued with the introduction of the Cheslie C. Kryst Fellowship. The fellowship, supported by Express, allows young people to engage with Big Brothers Big Sisters in key areas of study that align with Cheslie’s leadership and legacy within the organization.
Daily Recaps and National Conference Sizzle Reel
Back in New Hampshire, it has been a busy start to the summer for BBBSNH! On June 25th, we celebrated Pride Day and our PRISM program as Seacoast Outrights, "Community Partner of the Year."
Last weekend, we hosted our 2nd Annual Pickleball Tournament fundraiser featuring more than 300 participants from over 6 different states, raising more than $25,000 (and counting!) for youth mentoring.
Now, we're gearing up for the 10th Annual Isles of Shoals (IOS) Invitational on Sunday, August 14th! Hosted by Seacoast Paddleboard Club, teams will be embark on a 14+ mile paddleboard trek to the Isles of Shoals and back in support of youth mentoring. We are grateful to former, Big Brother and Big Sister, Chris and Dianne, for creating such a unique even to support BBBSNH! 
P.S. We are still looking for safety boat volunteers to assist with this event! Do you or someone you know have a 20+ foot vessel capable of escorting paddlers to and from the shoals? Please let us know! All safety boats will also receive a $100 gas card.
Happy summer,
Stacy W. Kramer, CEO