Big Draft Party

In collaboration with the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) is proud to host the 2026 Big Draft, an annual volunteer recruitment campaign designed to inspire more individuals to become mentors (“Bigs”) for youth (“Littles”) across Maricopa County, expanding access to life-changing relationships for all young people while building stronger, more connected communities. Inspired by the excitement and anticipation of the NFL Draft, the Big Draft symbolizes BBBSAZ selecting its next class of Bigs - dedicated volunteers who are ready to make a lasting difference in the lives of young people. With hundreds of youth still waiting for a mentor, the need has never been more urgent. Nationally, one in three children grow up without a sustained, positive adult mentor, and that gap continues to widen. “Mentorship has the power to change the trajectory of a young person’s life,” said Jared Byrd, Vice President of Programs of BBBSAZ. “Through the Big Draft, we are not only recruiting volunteers, we are building a movement of individuals who are committed to showing up, building trust, and creating meaningful connections that last.” BBBSAZ believes that one consistent adult can make all the difference. Mentorship builds confidence, creates a sense of belonging, opens doors to new opportunities, and strengthens the entire community. The Big Draft campaign aims to break down common misconceptions about mentoring by highlighting how simple, everyday moments can have a profound impact. On Thursday, April 23, 2026, BBBSAZ will host a Big Draft Watch Party at its office, located at 1615 E. Osborn Road in Phoenix. The event begins at 5:00 PM and will feature food from Raising Cane’s, a bar, raffles, and special appearances by Arizona Cardinals former players returning to connect with the community. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with current Bigs, hear real stories of impact, and learn more about becoming a mentor in a relaxed, welcoming environment. The Big Draft is designed to be an easy, no-pressure introduction to mentorship—welcoming both those already involved and those curious about getting started. Current Bigs are encouraged to bring a friend, colleague, or family member who may be interested in joining the movement. This event is free to attend and open to the public. To RSVP or learn more about becoming a Big, visit: https://www.bbbsaz.org/bigdraft/ ABOUT BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF CENTRAL ARIZONA For over 70 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona has operated under the belief that, inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life and our mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. As the nation’s largest donor and volunteer-supported mentoring network, Big Brothers Big Sisters makes meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (“Bigs”) and children (“Littles”), ages six through 18, in Maricopa County and Pinal County. We develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people, as well as our Big volunteers. For more information, contact BBBSAZ at 602-264-BIGS or visit www.bbbsaz.org # # #

Event Links

Tickets: https://go.evvnt.com/3596369-0

Read More

View Less