2026 Big Impact Legislative Summit

Big Brothers Big Sisters Agencies 2026 Big Impact Legislative Summit

TALLAHASSEE, FL | January 28, 2026 — On January 27 and 28, leaders from Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across Florida gathered in the state capital for two impactful days of meetings, collaboration, and storytelling. Organized by Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida, the annual legislative convening brought together agency CEOs, staff, mentors, and alumni to meet in-person with state lawmakers and champion the importance of youth mentorship across Florida.

This year’s visit was strengthened by the presence of exceptional program representatives, including Ava Witt, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach County High School Mentor of the Year, and Alex Salow, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward Big Brother of the Year. They were joined by several alumni Littles currently attending college in Tallahassee, who shared firsthand how mentorship shaped their educational journeys, personal confidence, and long-term goals. Their voices provided powerful, real-life examples of the lasting impact of one-to-one mentoring relationships.

Throughout the two days, agency leaders met with legislators from their home districts to discuss program outcomes, statewide impact, and the critical need for continued investment in mentoring services. These conversations centered on funding requests supported by legislative champions across multiple agencies, including the Florida Department of Education sponsored by Senator Trumbull and Representative Melo, the Office of the Attorney General sponsored by Senator Massullo and Representative Redondo, and the Department of Commerce sponsored by Senator Hooper and Representative Albert.

In addition to legislative meetings, the convening served as an important opportunity for statewide alignment and connection. Agency leaders gathered for Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida’s annual board meeting, generously hosted by the Florida Prepaid Foundation. The space provided a meaningful backdrop for strategic discussions and reinforced the shared commitment to expanding access to mentorship opportunities for youth across the state.

“These two days remind us why showing up together matters,” said Dan Prinzing, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida. “When legislators hear directly from mentors and young people whose lives have been changed, it reinforces that mentorship is not just a program, it is a proven investment in Florida’s future workforce and communities.”

The Association also extends sincere gratitude to The Mayernick Group for their continued guidance and support in navigating the legislative process. Their partnership plays a critical role in amplifying the collective voice of Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies and advancing funding priorities that allow programs to serve more children and families statewide.

As Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies return home, the momentum from these two days carries forward. By uniting around shared priorities, elevating authentic stories, and building strong relationships with policymakers, the network continues to advocate for BIG futures for Florida’s youth.

Thank you to every mentor, alumni Little, agency leader, partner, and legislator who made this year’s advocacy days possible. Together, we are creating meaningful change and expanding the reach of mentorship across Florida.