Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana celebrates mentorship at “Party for a Purpose”
Original story published by WLKY/Joyce Ogirri. Read more and watch here.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Sunday, June 22) — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana hosted their annual "Party for a Purpose," combining fun, music, and philanthropy to empower the youth of Louisville and Southern Indiana.
Held at The Greenhouse at Zeppa’s, the event featured performances by Louisville’s Frankie Moody and an exciting live auction led by Laurie Gillespie.
This event wasn’t just a celebration; it was a lifeline for mentoring programs. With more than 700 kids currently served but a waitlist of 400, every dollar raised supports mentorship programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana, offering local youth a brighter future.
Tom Browne, co-owner of Nothing Bundt Cakes around Kentuckiana, reflected on the program’s significance.
“If we can help kids get on a track to maximize their potential, it’s invaluable not just to them but to the community as a whole," Browne said.
Attendees like Little Sister Jazmin shared heartwarming stories of how her mentor, Elizabeth, has profoundly impacted her life.
Community leaders echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the transformative power of just a few hours monthly spent as a mentor.
"For only a couple hours a month, you can really make a big difference in a child's life and it will probably do more for you than it will for the kid," said Isac Roths, board chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana.
One highlight from the evening were the one-of-a-kind party favors: watercolor portraits painted on site by Ann Lundy Brown.
Proceeds from the event fund initiatives supporting individuals aged 7 to 25, helping them transition smoothly into adulthood.
Big Brothers Big Sisters’ impact of collective effort resonated with Big Sister Melanie Hunter.
“These children grow into the adults we shape our society with. Let’s give them the best start possible,” Hunter said.
The event also encouraged attendees to participate in Monday’s Links for Littles Golf Scramble at Big Spring Country Club or contribute through volunteering as a mentor or making donations.
It all proves that support can change lives, showing the profound impact of a community coming together to give back with purpose.