Big Night of Thanks 2018

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks Celebrates Volunteers at The 12th Annual Big Night of Thanks

Glens Falls, NY – On November 15, 2018 Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) recognized five remarkable volunteers and honorees at their 12th annual Big Night of Thanks. The event is generously co-sponsored by Glens Falls Hospital, NBT Bank, Stewart's Shops, Tackett Chiropractic Center and friends of the agency, Bert and Terri Rappaport. The event was hosted by the Hiland Park Country Club in Queensbury.

Kaeleen Bowe, was named our 2018 Big Sister of the Year. Kaeleen has been matched with her Little Anna for 6 years, who is graduating High School this year. They have created an unbreakable bond over the years. Kaeleen offers Anna the freedom to grow and be herself. She has made an impact on the young woman Anna has become today. Kaeleen has continually fostered her relationship with Anna through understanding, being present and taking the time to connect.

Bert and Terri Rappaport, was named our 2018 Couple's Match of the Year. Bert and Terri have been matched with their Little TJ for 6 years. Their involvement with BBBS started long before they were matched with their Little Brother TJ. Bert is one of our longest standing board members and they are BIG advocates for Bowl for Kids' Sake. They participate, volunteer and fundraise for the event, Terri even hand decorates trophy pins. They are invested in the success of not only their Little TJ but our entire agency.

Helen Levendos, was selected as our 2018 Honorary Big Sister. Helen embodies the spirit of giving back, it's her passion. While she is not a traditional matched mentor, she uses her connections and voice to advocate, promote and fundraise for BBBS. Helen understands the value of community with her whole heart. She has hosted several events to raise funds for the BBBS community. She is a force of caring: her relationship with our community personifies the BBBS mission: Together we are defenders of potential.

Don Morse, was named our 2018 Big Brother of the Year. Don, has been matched with his Little Izzy for 2 years. In that time they have done so much together from homework to boat rides to hiking to yard work and just about everything in between. Don has been a tremendous role model for Izzy. They share responsibility for their friendship and activities together. They enjoy attending many agency sponsored events. Don understands the value of doing simple things consistently, he has invested in Izzy's success.

Tom Albrecht Sr., CEO of Hilltop Construction, was selected as the recipient of the David J. Capron Humanitarian of the Year Award. Tom's dedication to our community will have lasting impacts for years to come. He goes above and beyond not just for BBBS but the whole community. Tom has been a leader in our community for many years. He's an avid advocate for people in need, someone who always asks what he can do for others and not what they can do for him. Tom proudly accepted the honor to be in the likes of David J. Capron, a longtime supporter of ours. As with Dave, Tom is committed to making our community stronger.

Since 1975, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Southern Adirondacks has been changing children's lives by matching them with caring adults to guide them on a path to success throughout Warren, Washington and northern Saratoga Counties. Big Brothers Big Sisters seeks to change the lives of children facing adversity for the better, forever. Our mentors work with children in our community, in their schools, and many places in between. By partnering with parents/guardians, volunteers, and others in the community we are accountable for each child in our program achieving higher aspirations, greater confidence, and educational success.