2026 Match OF THE YEAR

ANTHONY & STEVEN

When Anthony joined the BBBS Career Buddies program at Pershing High School, he brought curiosity, kindness, and a drive to succeed. His Big, Steven, is one of the many dedicated Ally employees who volunteer their time each week to guide students like Anthony through real-world conversations about work, money, and life. Thanks to our partnership with Ally, students are welcomed into Ally Detroit Center every other Thursday for this career-focused mentoring program.

Where the match made a difference
Over this year and a half, Steven has helped Anthony develop a waste management business plan to help clean up Detroit. They keep in contact on the regular and work on the project during the sessions. Steven has helped with Anthony’s confidence and focus towards his future goals.

How Steven helped Anthony grow
Steven has definitely been part of Anthony’s success. Anthony wanted help with money, and their Thursday check-ins became a safe space to ask real questions and set goals. Last winter, Steven learned that Anthony didn’t have a winter coat. Steven worked with his Match Support Specialist (Zhiyon) and BBBS to secure a winter coat for Anthony, and Steven was willing to buy a winter coat if needed. Anthony shared, “That’s when I knew I could trust him.” Steven has helped talk to Anthony about his future and provide guidance for what to do after he graduates high school, with Anthony thinking about trade school. Anthony also joined BBBS for their Leadership Camp in 2025, and with the workshops from the Leadership Camp and guidance from Steven, Anthony was able to develop his waste management business plan.

All in on the mission
This match has also had the chance to interact outside the Ally building. A special school field trip was arranged by Ally and BBBS for a field trip to the Detroit Pistons career event, Fueling Futures. Steven attended the event (one of only 3 mentors to do so) and spent the event supporting Anthony as Anthony learned about future career paths in sports. Steven also recently attended one of our Tigers events.

Mentorship, out loud
Steven says it best: “It’s been an incredible experience mentoring with Anthony! He’s a bright kid with lots of ambition and I’m happy to have played a part in his growth! Congratulations, Anthony!”

And Anthony shared: “BBBS has been an open door of knowledge for me, Steven has been great and he listens to me and is very supportive. He has great life advice for me, for what I’ve been through.”

Overall, this has been an amazing match that highlights everything that is special about the BBBS program: positive, long-lasting relationships. We know Steven will stay in Anthony’s life long after they graduate from our program in June.

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ALANA & MADELINE

Madeline and Alana have been matched for 3 years and their relationship has blossomed so much. Overall, they are a great match who has only grown closer they are a great match who has only grown closer as they have built a lasting bond of trust and friendship.

Where the match made a difference
Alana's confidence has grown as a result of the match with Madeline. Alana has separated from an older sibling and leaned toward their own identity and interests thanks to Madeline's guidance and support. Alana’s sense of independence is something that Madeline speaks highly of as Madeline helps Alana be confident in their interests while also helping Alana recognize good friends and influences.

How Madeline helped Alana grow
Madeline has supported Alana through elementary school and is now a guide as Alana tackles the challenges of middle school and puberty. Madeline has helped advocate for Alana's educational success, for example helping Alana and Takiyah understand the importance of having a plan and support system. Madeline has supported Alana through elementary and now middle school, and has helped Alana find a voice to advocate for herself.

All in on the mission
They participate in BBBS events when possible, and Madeline has always been supportive of BBBS by making suggestions to coworkers and encouraging an employer to connect with BBBS. Madeline has also reported feeling like family as holidays and special moments are celebrated, like prom and graduation with Alana's siblings. As Takiyah shared, “Madeline is a breath of fresh air! She really has become a part of our family and is around us all the time.”

Mentorship, out loud
“People think they have to be some kind of special person but just being with a child, being an average person sharing your experiences and being another consistent adult in their life is enough to make an impact.” — Madeline
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Alana puts it simply: “Madeline is super nice and funny.” And some of the best moments are the traditions that give the match something to look forward to each year: “We go ice skating every year and I always look forward to it.”