Kosciusko County
Ambassador Committee
2025 Holiday Celebration & Year in Review
Presented by Tammy Smith
Director of Community Development: Kosciusko County
2025: A Year of Impact and Growth
This year brought remarkable achievements across our programs. From record-breaking match numbers to expanded community partnerships, we've strengthened our mission of creating meaningful mentoring relationships that change lives. Together, we've built a foundation of hope and opportunity for children across Kosciusko County.
Celebrating Excellence
National Big and Little of the Year
This year's honorees exemplify the transformative power of mentorship. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to building a life-changing relationship have inspired our entire country. Their journey together demonstrates the profound impact that one caring adult can have in a child's life.
Record-Breaking Match Success
74
New Matches
Created in 2025
56
2024 Matches
Previous year total
32%
Growth Rate
Year-over-year increase
We've achieved tremendous growth in creating new mentoring relationships! With 74 new matches formed this year compared to 56 in 2024, we're building stronger connections throughout our community. Currently, 5 matches are pending finalization, and 18 dedicated Bigs are ready and waiting to be matched with their future Littles.
Expanding Our Reach
199 Children Served
Up from 168 in 2024—a remarkable 18% increase in young lives touched by our mentoring programs
43 Total Closures
Significantly improved from 55 closures in 2024, with 20 closures due to child-related circumstances beyond our control
18 Bigs Ready
Enthusiastic volunteers trained and prepared to begin their mentoring journey with children in our community
Fundraising Excellence
2025 Fundraising Success
Total YTD: $188,890
  • Successful Bowl for Kids Sake event energized our community with a 14% revenue increase over previous year
  • The Big Celebration 2025 achieved a 16% increase in revenue
  • Building on previous year's impressive 26% growth momentum
Bowl For Kids' Sake
The Big Celebration
Your generous support and participation in our signature events have fueled our mission and enabled us to serve more children than ever before.
Program Innovation & Expansion
Re-Engagement Campaign Success
Our strategic outreach initiative reconnected with former inquiries who had lost contact, resulting in 18 new matches.
High School Leadership Program
Launched at Wawasee High School, empowering high school students to develop leadership skills while providing mentorship to elementary students.
Mentone Elementary Partnership
Expanded our School Buddies Program to include Mentone Elementary. BBBS now supports every elementary school in Kosciusko County.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Our Vision for Continued Growth
More Matches
Expanding our reach to serve additional children across Kosciusko County
Big Involvement
Deepening volunteer engagement and support throughout the year. Signature events: Big Community Meet Ups and Volunteer Recognition Brunch
Fundraising
Bowl for Kids' Sake and The Big Celebration
Keeping the Momentum
1
Enhanced Re-Engagement Campaign
Building on 2025's success, we'll launch another strategic campaign to connect with potential volunteers and reignite past relationships.
2
New Office Space at CCS Building
Beginning in Q1 2026, BBBS will move into our new office space at the CCS building, to better serve our matches, and volunteers.
3
Partnerships / Monthly Donors
Strengthening existing business partnerships while encouraging more people to become monthly donors.
Thank You for Making Miracles Happen
Your dedication, generosity, and belief in our mission have transformed 199 Little's lives this year. Together, we're building a brighter future—one match at a time. Here's to an even more impactful 2026!
Happy Holidays from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana!