National Volunteer Month is a time to recognize the generous leadership and lasting impact of our mentors. This month, we celebrate the incredible mentors who show up every day to lead, uplift, and inspire the next generation.

Giving back to our community through volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways we can make a difference. It allows us to invest in the very community that supports us in return. Our Bigs show up for their Littles through every high and low, offering consistency, guidance, and care. By dedicating even a small amount of their time, they create a lasting impact not only on a child, but also on their families and the broader community we all cherish.


The 2026 BIG Golf Cart Raffle Is Back!

Our 2026 BIG Golf Cart Raffle is back again this year, and you won’t want to miss your chance to win big while supporting youth in our community.

In partnership with Joe’s Carts and TEKO, one lucky winner will take home a brand new 2026 TEKO Turbo Golf Cart with a $8,995 retail value, taxes included. Even better, every ticket purchased helps fuel something even more meaningful.

When you enter the BIG Golf Cart Raffle, you’re doing more than entering for a chance to cruise the Lowcountry in style. You are investing in the potential of local youth. Proceeds from this raffle directly support Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry’s mentoring programs, helping young people achieve their biggest possible futures.

Your support helps us continue creating life-changing matches and expanding mentorship opportunities for children across the Lowcountry.

More details about the golf cart package and raffle can be found here.

Shaneikqua hoped a Big Brother would provide her son, Omeir, with a positive male role model and someone he could look up to, especially since he doesn’t have any brothers. Since being matched with his Big, Mike, last May, she has seen Omeir grow his confidence, curiosity, and excitement. “He gets so excited and is always reminding me when he’s going to see Mike,” she shared. Whether they’re baking cookies, playing games, or trying new activities, Omeir eagerly looks forward to their time together. Shaneikqua noted that Mike has been intentional about helping Omeir discover new interests and get more involved. “They have so much fun together,” she said, adding, “I’m just glad he’s able to get out of the house and have fun experiences with his Big.” She has seen these moments positively impact Omeir’s overall well-being and self-confidence and is excited to see how the match continues to grow.

Omeir was excited to join the program and shared that he really enjoys having someone to have fun with and learn from. He and Mike love playing sports together, including football and soccer, and Omeir is always eager to try something new. “I want to try baseball with Mike,” he shared enthusiastically. One of his favorite recent activities was baking together. “We made chocolate chip cookies, and I want to make cookies with him again!” Omeir also shared that Mike helps him with reading when he needs it, making learning feel supportive and encouraging. Some of his favorite memories so far include going to the beach, getting
ice cream afterward, and spending quality time cooking and playing together.

After retiring, Mike knew he wanted to give back in a meaningful way and decided to volunteer with Big Brothers Big Sisters because of his love for working with kids. He shared that Omeir was “a little standoffish at first,” but has since blossomed into a confident, curious, and joyful child. Mike admires Omeir’s resilience and enthusiasm for learning, noting that he enjoys trying new things and “bounces back quickly when things don’t go his way.” Mike is intentional about supporting Omeir’s growth, often incorporating reading into their time and reading together on their outings. Mike also noted that Omeir often asks thoughtful questions about the future, including how long Mike will be part of his life. “Having fun together is meaningful,” Mike said. “He’s such a wonderful kid, and every day brings something new.”

Click here to read more stories like theirs.


For April, we are updating our Internet Safety Resources to help keep Littles safe online! We will be sending out a guide at the end of this month that provides tips on setting boundaries, using privacy settings, and having open conversations about digital safety.

Guardians and Bigs will receive emails featuring these details on internet safety. For questions or additional support, please contact your Match Support Coordinator, Dana or Avery.



Career Readiness Update

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lowcountry is proud to thank the ATI Foundation for their #TEAM500 support in empowering the next generation of leaders in our community.

This generous investment is expanding our career-readiness framework for youth ages 13+, giving them opportunities to set career goals, explore job shadows, participate in college tours, and gain exposure to pathways beyond traditional higher education.

With ATI Foundation’s support, we’re helping our “Littles” turn potential into achievement, connecting them with caring mentors who guide, inspire, and prepare them for life’s next steps.

Together, we’re creating a stronger, more resilient Lowcountry.

Join us for Thankful Thursday at Cannon Distillery on April 16 from 6 to 9 pm. It is a great opportunity to gather with fellow supporters and enjoy a relaxed evening out while giving back.

Ten percent of all sales during the event will be donated to support our programs, making it an easy and meaningful way to contribute. Whether you stop in for a drink, a bite, or just to connect, your presence helps make an impact.

Bring a friend, spread the word, and make it a night out. Be sure to stop by our table to say hello. We would love to see you there and thank you in person for your continued support.

Our matches recently came together for a hands-on cooking class hosted by Young Chefs Academy. Through this interactive experience, matches explored the fundamentals of cooking, from following recipes to understanding the many steps and skills involved in preparing a meal.

Together, Bigs and Littles rolled up their sleeves to create their own pizzas, building confidence in the kitchen while strengthening communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. For many of our Littles, it was an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the effort and creativity behind the foods they enjoy every day.

Beyond the kitchen, experiences like these foster curiosity, independence, and meaningful connection. Most importantly, they create lasting memories that continue to strengthen the bond between each match.


Last month, we partnered with J. McLaughlin for our annual Spring Sip N’ Shop. We are extremely proud of our continued partnership and grateful for the consistent support they provide year after year.

This event was a wonderful way to welcome the spring season while bringing together community members in support of a meaningful local impact. Partnerships like this play an important role in helping us further our mission.

Click here to view their spring style guide and explore the latest seasonal looks.


We are so grateful to Bruster’s of Summerville for matching the donation of proceeds from our percentage night featuring the South Carolina Stingrays! It was such a joyful evening full of smiles, connection, and good ice cream!

Partnerships like theirs are what make our community stronger and more whole.


“Fish Fest” at the Charleston Visitor Center
Tuesday, April 7 | 11 AM-1 PM | FREE with Registration

Decorate-your-own fish tote using Gyotaku, “Go Fish” Casting Game, Fish Measuring Activity, and a Photo with your choice of a red drum, black tip shark, or mahi mahi. Plus, find out where the best places to fish are in Charleston, and the lowcounty, information about fishing regulations, and free public fishing programs with SCDNR! 

Children’s Festival 2026: Little Heroes, Big Adventures
Friday, April 17 | 9 AM-1 PM |
Get ready for a heroic adventure filled with music, arts and crafts, games, live performances, and action-packed fun—perfect for early childhood and preschool-aged children. From capes to courage, every child will have the chance to be the hero of their own story.

Charles Towne Landing Fishing Rodeo – Charleston County
Saturday, April 25 | 9 AM-12 PM
This is a great community event that provides youth with the opportunity to catch fish. Please arrive 15-30 minutes early to allow time to park and check in. 

Kids Eat Free: **w/ purchase of adult meal

  • **The Co-Op (all Charleston locations) – Free kids’ sandwich with adult sandwich or salad. Monday’s all day.
  • **Ruby Tuesday (1953 Savannah Hwy, Charleston, SC 29407): Tuesday’s only after 5 pm.
  • **East Bay Deli (all Charleston locations): Monday-Thursday from 4 pm to close.
  • **Sesame Burgers & Beer (all Charleston locations): Sunday’s from 4 pm to close.
  • **Poogan’s Southern Kitchen (101 Nexton Square Drive, Summerville, SC 29486): Tuesday’s from 3-9 pm only.
  • **Moe’s Southwest Grill (all Charleston locations): Sunday’s all day.
  • **Bodega (14 W Coleman Blvd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464): Thursday’s all day.
  • **Melvin’s BBQ (all Charleston locations): Friday’s from 4 pm-8:30 pm