Pride Month is an annual month-long observance of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) history, and the history of the gay rights and related civil rights movements. It is celebrated in June to commemorate the Stonewall uprisings in June of 1969. The Stonewall Inn in Manhattan, NY, was the site of riots and demonstrations by members of the gay community against a police raid. This sparked the beginning of a
movement to change discriminatory laws and practices against LGBTQ Americans. At BBBSU, we are looking for those who want to volunteer as Bigs and Littles from all walks of life. Celebration and inclusion are our top priorities, and we strive to be part of the solution.

Little Brother Adrian & Big Sister Breea

Little Brother Adrian has a fun personality and enjoys running, soccer, football, and dance. Like many of the kids in our program, when Adrian was enrolled in Big Brothers Big Sisters, he experienced multiple risk factors, including an unstable home environment, caring for younger siblings, and many other responsibilities that were way beyond his years. This young, happy, energetic kid faces the reality of growing up too fast and the harshness that can come with it.

Enter Breea

Five years ago, Adrian was matched with Big Sister Breea, who soon provided that consistent adult presence in his life he so desperately needed. Breea’s volunteer experience began. The two started hanging out frequently. Connecting over lots of good food, trips to the arcade, and cruising around town. They could talk about anything and everything. Whether it was the simple, easy things in life, or the hard hand he had been dealt with. They talked about it.

The presence of Breea in Adrian’s life has given him the support he needs. He graduated high school after many setbacks and concerns that it wouldn’t happen. Adrian now has plans to become a barber. Being a part of the LGBTQ community, Big Sister Breea has been able to relate to Adrian. She’s been able to encourage him to be the person he has always been. Including supporting him in the journey of self-discovery. A feat difficult for anyone. She has inspired him to be himself around people and never be ashamed of who he is. Adrian says, “One thing that I have learned from Breea is that a person can overcome anything with the right mindset.” Having someone who cares and worries about him, and loves him for the person he provides hope for the future.