Employment and Financial Empowerment

At Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass, we’re proud to work with a wide range of incredible individuals who are passionate about giving back to their community. This semester, we’ve been lucky to have one of University of Kentucky’s own student- athletes join our team as an intern. Meet Kahlil Saunders, a senior at the University of Kentucky, standout defensive lineman (#92) on the UK Football team, and one of our newest interns here at BBBSBG. Originally from Huntsville, Alabama, and a graduate of Grissom High School, Kahlil is the oldest of four siblings — a natural leader on and off the field. So, what brought Kahlil to Kentucky?  “The opportunity to play in the SEC which will help me build my skillset and potentially lead to a career in the NFL. I was also looking for a community where I could get involved and give back” he says. And give back, he has. Kahlil chose to intern with BBBSBG because he wanted to make a real impact. “I didn’t have a mentor growing up and would’ve liked to have had an impactful adult from outside of my family in my life,” he shares. “Being able to be part of an organization that makes that happen for kids means a lot to me.” During his time with BBBSBG, Kahlil has gotten involved with community events, supported match activities, and has participated in many meetings with local businesses. His favorite event so far? Bowl for Kids’ Sake, our largest peer-to-peer fundraiser. “It was such a fun event with great energy and a real sense of purpose. You could feel the community coming together to fundraise for our Matches” he says. After college, he hopes to play in the NFL — a dream well within reach given his talent and determination. But his ambitions don’t end there. “After the NFL, my dream job is to become an exotic veterinarian”. Yes, you read that right! Kahlil is the proud owner of a snake named Gucci and a dog named Princess- a duo that’s as unique and delightful as he is! And when he’s not on the field or in the community, Kahlil also enjoys drawing-a fun fact that highlights just how multi-talented he is. When asked about his favorite thing in Lexington, his answer came quickly: “The UK fan base, of course! There’s nothing like the Big Blue Nation to feel like you’re an immediate part of this community. They welcomed me from the day I stepped foot on the field, and I’ll never forget them.” From the gridiron to the mentoring world, Kahlil Saunders brings heart, purpose, and a deep sense of responsibility to everything he does. We’re proud to have him as part of the BBBSBG family and can’t wait to see where his journey takes him next, both in football and beyond.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass (BBBSBG) is proud to announce that we’ve been awarded a 2024 Growth Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America (BBBSA) for the second year in a row and have earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid (formerly GuideStar)! Out of more than 230 agencies nationwide, BBBSBG was recognized for growing the number of Bigs and Littles matched year over year—proof of the impact our community is making, together. "Being honored with the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Growth Award for the second year in a row is a true testament to the dedication and heart of our entire team," said Meredith Watts, Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass. "We're incredibly grateful for our staff, board, mentors, and community partners who make this growth possible every day. We're also proud to have received the Platinum Transparency Seal from Candid, recognizing our commitment to accountability and excellence." 🌱 Growth That Changes Lives The Growth Award celebrates agencies that have demonstrated consistent increases in mentoring relationships. For us, that means more children in Central Kentucky gaining access to the power of a supportive, caring adult- someone to listen, guide, and inspire. Every new match represents hope, connection, and a brighter future for a young person in our community. 💎 Platinum Transparency from Candid We're equally proud to have earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from Candid , the highest level of recognition for nonprofit transparency. This designation signals our deep commitment to integrity, accountability, and communicating our impact clearly to our supporters.  These achievements belong to all of us—our dedicated mentors, volunteers, board members, staff, and community supporters. Together, we are building something powerful: a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s keep growing, matching, and transforming lives.

Bigs, Littles, and Pasta: A Perfect Recipe for Fun!

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass Selected as 2025 Chick-fil-A True Inspiration Awards® Grant Recipient

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 6, 2025 Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass Appoints Meredith Downey Watts as Executive Director LEXINGTON, KY—Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass (BBBSBG) is pleased to announce the appointment of Meredith Downey Watts as Executive Director, effective January 1, 2025. Meredith joined BBBSBG in January 2022 as Major Gifts Officer, where she played a pivotal role in enhancing the organization's fundraising efforts. In October 2024, she assumed the position of Interim Executive Director, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the agency's mission. A native of Versailles, Kentucky, Meredith holds a Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Strategic Communication from the University of Kentucky. Her professional background includes significant experience in community engagement and fundraising. "We are thrilled to have Meredith lead BBBSBG as Executive Director," said Abe Mashni, Board Chair of BBBSBG. "Her commitment to our mission and her proven track record in fundraising and leadership make her the ideal person to guide our organization into the future." Meredith's tenure as Interim Executive Director was marked by successful events and creative initiatives that strengthened BBBSBG's programs and community presence. Her vision for the organization includes expanding mentorship opportunities and deepening community partnerships to better serve the youth of Central Kentucky. "I am honored to take on the role of Executive Director at BBBSBG," said Watts. "I look forward to working with our dedicated team, volunteers, and supporters to continue making a positive impact in the lives of young people in our community."  About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating and supporting one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Serving Central Kentucky, BBBSBG works to ensure that every child has the opportunity to achieve their full potential. For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass and its programs, please visit www.bbbs-bluegrass.org .

Matched for nearly two years, Koston and Cory have built a strong bond through consistent time together.

Matched for two years, Ben and Aaron have built a strong connection centered around new experiences and personal growth.

Louis and Dwight have been matched since July 2023 and continue to meet weekly, sharing a strong bond and excellent communication with Louis’ Parent/Guardian, Tamecko.