Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay

Big Brother Michael & Little Brother Tavoris have been together more than 5 years, getting matched after Michael moved to Tampa following his graduation from the University of Connecticut. “I came here knowing that it was my turn to try and open doors for other people,” he said. “Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tampa Bay was a perfect fit.”

When they first met, Tavoris was shy, had some struggles in school and occasionally would misbehave. Now his report card is full of As and Bs, and he and Michael have made several speeches together, once addressing a crowd of 500 adults. “If Michael was never in my life, my whole life would be different,” said Tavoris. “My school grades would not be as good as they are right now. My attitude would be different. My personality would be way different. Michael is a big part of my life.”

Big Sister Jessica & Little Sister Angie have been matched for over 3 years, ever since Jessica moved to Tampa from New York at age 20. Jessica was excited to be a Big Sister to Angie “to share all the values I learned growing up and to be able to make a difference in someone’s life.”

“This relationship has truly touched me,” Jess said. “I feel like I’m not only a mentor and role model to her, but also a true friend. I am usually a fast-paced person and juggle a lot of things in my everyday life. But with having Angie as my Little Sister, I have learned to slow down and enjoy the simpler things in life. The joy she has when she accomplishes something she didn’t think she could do is overwhelming and truly humbling. Her excitement for life has renewed my own sense of joy.”

“She has shown me that I can be comfortable with being myself no matter what,” said Angie, who likes to go roller skating with Jess while wearing matching costumes or hats. “Jess has impacted my life so much. I am so grateful to have her as a Big Sister.”