Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado (BBBSC) brought the Colorado Springs community together this morning at Weidner Field for its 5th annual Big Little Breakfast, a moving and memorable celebration of the life-changing power of mentorship.
The event welcomed over 100 community leaders, educators, mentors, mentees, and supporters for an uplifting morning centered around one shared belief: that every child deserves someone in their corner.
Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade kicked off the program with a heartfelt message on the importance of investing in youth, calling mentorship “a critical tool for building a stronger, more connected city.” The morning’s keynote speaker, motivational author Dudley Thurmond, inspired the crowd with his own story of overcoming adversity—crediting the mentors in his life for helping him chart a new path and challenging attendees to be that turning point for someone else.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the way the Colorado Springs community shows up for our young people,” said Elycia Cook, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado. “When a young person has a mentor who believes in them, they’re more likely to graduate, pursue their goals, and contribute to a stronger local economy. This isn’t just about changing one life—it’s about transforming our entire community.”
One of the most impactful moments came from peer mentors in BBBSC’s STARS program, who shared moving stories about the bonds they’ve built with fellow students—demonstrating the ripple effect of mentorship in schools and families. The STARS program, recently launched in Harrison School District with the support of Superintendent Dr. Wendy Birhanzel, is helping expand mentorship access for youth in Southeast Colorado Springs.
The event raised critical funds to support BBBSC’s mentorship programs and sparked new energy around the need for volunteers—especially male mentors. Today, more than 300 youth—most of them boys—are on the waitlist in Colorado Springs and across the state, hoping for someone to step up and become their mentor.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado has served the state since 1918 and continues to grow its impact across the Pikes Peak region. To learn more about becoming a Big or supporting youth in your community, visit www.BigLittleColorado.org.
