2023 BIGS OF THE YEAR

BBBST is grateful for each of these amazing supporters. Congratulations to our 2023 Bigs of the Year and 2023 Award Recipients!

Big Sister of the Year: Yvette Gomes

Yvette is currently part of our Big G(randparent) Program but first joined our agency 26 years ago, in 1997! Over the years Yvette has been a Big Sister to 3 Littles, and has mentored countless other youth through our group based programs. Yvette and Blesing have been matched for the last 11 months and they share an incredible bond. Blesing is a young lady who has overcome a great number of obstacles and challenges. Since being matched, Yvette has been a stable, consistent, and supportive presence in Blesing’s life, providing her with guidance as she navigates a difficult and uncertain time at home. Yvette has helped guide Blesing towards success in school, while also supporting her social and emotional needs.

Big Brother of the Year: Marc Duvert

As a child that grew up without a present father, Marc was motivated to join Big Brothers Big Sisters of Toronto to be a positive male role model in a young person’s life. Marc was matched with Ismael eight years ago. Abram, Ismael’s younger brother, was on our waitlist for quite some time, until Marc stepped up to be his ‘Big’ as well. Marc takes the time to schedule separate visits for both siblings, and at the end of the month they all come together to do an activity as a ‘family’. Marc has been a caring, supportive, mentor for the boys and has made an immense impact on their life.