Defend their potential

You don’t need to be a hero to change a life; you just need to show up. Join us for The BIG Breakfast and learn how you can fuel a Little’s potential.

2026 BIG BREAKFAST PRESENTED BY:

The BIG Impact Award

It is an absolute honor to recognize John Ellsworth and Ryleigh Scott Weeks as our 2026 Big Impact Award recipients.

John Ellsworth and Ryleigh Scott Weeks are true champions of the High School Bigs Program. 

Their combined heart and advocacy did so much more than just support the youth in Grand Ledge. By believing in the “what” before we even had the “how” fully figured out, they became a massive catalyst for the entire agency. Creating space for mentorship directly where youth are; in the schools.

A special thank you to Big Brother Hunter and Big Sister Amanda for taking the stage and sharing your journeys as mentors. We are so incredibly proud of your dedication to Little Brother Tristan and Little Sister Mila. The bond you’ve built and the positive difference you make in our community serve as a powerful reminder of why we do what we do. You are the heart of this mission! 

Thank you to our Board of Directors, Staff, Donors, and Community Partners for making the 2026 BIG Breakfast truly remarkable. 

2025 BIG BREAKFAST

The BIG Impact Award

 The agency was proud to recognize Will Verchereau as the 2025 BIG Impact Award recipient. 

For nearly a decade Will spent time being a constant presence in their Little’s life. The match started in our Site Based program while their Little was in elementary school. Eventually the match transitioned to our Community Based program and the conversations slowly shifted from what was for lunch at school to what jobs the Little was interested in.

Will recently began a new match journey and their dedication to our program is inspiring. We are thankful for Will and the steadfast mentorship they provide to their Little.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters Michigan Capital Region 405 W Greenlawn Ave Suite 400B Lansing, MI 48910