2025 Big Impact Legislative Summit

Big Brothers Big Sisters Agencies Unite in Tallahassee for 2025 Big Impact Legislative Summit

TALLAHASSEE, FL | April 4, 2025 — From April 1 to 3, CEOs and staff from 11 Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across Florida joined Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida in the state capital for the annual Big Impact Legislative Summit. This powerful gathering was dedicated to advocating for the transformative power of youth mentoring relationships that help children across Florida realize their full potential.

A highlight of this year’s summit was the opportunity to bring two extraordinary mentors: Brian McGrath, Florida’s Big Brother of the Year, and Samara Minichiello, Florida’s Big Sister of the Year, both from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County. Brian and Samara shared their powerful personal stories of how the program has not only changed the lives of their Littles, but profoundly impacted their own. Their heartfelt testimonies helped legislators see firsthand the ripple effect of mentorship in strengthening youth, families, and communities.

Throughout the summit, agency leaders met one-on-one with legislators from their home districts to share stories, impact data, and the critical need for continued state funding to support and expand mentoring programs in Florida. These face-to-face conversations are more than just policy discussions; they are a crucial way to connect with state decision-makers and advocate for the youth we serve.

In addition to legislative meetings, the summit served as a valuable platform for statewide collaboration. Agency leaders participated in strategy discussions focused on refining best practices, identifying common challenges, and exploring innovative solutions. By learning from one another and aligning around shared goals, agencies strengthen their individual operations and build a more unified, effective statewide mentoring network. These relationships foster ongoing support and knowledge-sharing that allow all agencies to grow and serve more youth with excellence.

“This annual trip is essential. Not just to advocate for funding, but to continue building strong, collaborative relationships with our lawmakers,” said Dan Prinzing, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida. “It’s about showing up for the kids who need us and working together to create safe, supported, and BIG futures for Florida’s youth.”

By investing in mentoring, we invest in stronger communities, improved academic outcomes, and long-term success for children across the state. The 2025 Big Impact Legislative Summit reaffirmed our collective commitment to ignite the potential of youth in Florida through a meaningful one-to-one mentoring relationship.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to every CEO, staff member, legislator, and advocate who participated in this year’s event. Together, we are creating BIG impact in Florida, one match at a time.