Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast Proudly Announces the 2021 Florida Big Sister of the Year

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast today announced Candy Brooks has been selected as the 2021 Florida Big Sister of the Year.

Big Sister Candy Brooks

In 2017, Aaliyah entered Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring program and was matched with her Big Sister Candy Brooks. At the time, Aaliyah’s guardian felt she would benefit by the addition of another caring adult in her life.  She was in elementary school with a focus on improving grades and friends.  Life changed for Aaliyah as she was adopted into a loving home and ultimately another caring adult, her Big Sister Candy. When Candy became Aaliyah’s Big, she recognized Aaliyah’s potential. Together they discussed the importance of good grades, building stronger friendships with her peers, and Candy quickly became a close friend in her life.

Now, 3 years later, Aaliyah is thriving. She enjoys going to school, has made close friends and is on track to pursue her dreams of attending college for art or dancing. This match also has a lot of fun! They share a love for kayaking, fishing, walks on the beach and dining out.

“Our friendship is equally important to the both of us,” said Candy. “I can’t ever imagine us being apart – we will always be there for each other,” she added.

“We know that when a child has an adult in their life committed to their well-being, their self-esteem soars, school attendance improves, risky behavior decreases, graduation rates climb and families thrive. Candy is committed and dedicated to the well-being of her Little Sister Aaliyah, and for this we are grateful,” states Joy Mahler, President and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast

For over 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has been matching youth in meaningful, enduring, professionally supported mentoring relationships with adult volunteers who defend their potential and help them achieve their biggest possible futures. Big Brothers Big Sisters’ evidence-based approach is designed to create positive youth outcomes, including educational success, avoidance of risky behaviors, higher aspirations, greater confidence, and improved relationships. This past year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast has served over 1,800 youth across a 10 county footprint. Learn how to get involved at HERE.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida

Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida works to increase resources and create opportunities that sustain and grow program services at each of the 11 locations that span 52 of Florida’s 67 counties, from the Panhandle to Miami. Each of these agencies provides strong, safe, and nurturing mentoring relationships for at-risk youth and trained, adult volunteers.

Contact: Gina Taylor, VP Communications & Marketing, 941.488.4009, or gtaylor@bbbssun.org

Photo from Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast