Big Brothers Big Sisters Award Ceremony Held

Scholarship recipients (Coastal Click Photo)

(Press Release) West Palm Beach, Fla. (June 17, 2026)— Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties gathered friends, supporters, mentors, and young scholars on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at Morton's The Steakhouse in West Palm Beach for its annual Mentorship Award Ceremony, a morning dedicated to honoring the life-changing power of mentorship and recognizing those who champion the futures of local youth.

The event was emceed by Dr. Stephanie Poole, Medical Director at South Broward Animal Hospital and a proud double alumna of Tuskegee University, whose personal connection to mentorship set a powerful and inspiring tone for the morning's program.

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"Every person here — every Big, every Little, every partner, every supporter — is proof that one relationship can change everything," said Yvette Flores Acevedo, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach and Martin Counties, who has served the organization for 14 years. "Days like this are what it's all for."

$4.2 Million in Path to Prosperity Scholarships AwardedA highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of Path to Prosperity Scholarships, a landmark achievement made possible through a transformative partnership between Florida Power & Light, the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Florida Power & Light contributed $2.1 million to the program, which the Florida Prepaid College Foundation matched dollar-for-dollar, resulting in a total of $4.2 million and 1,000 two-year college plan scholarships for Florida students with high potential. The Foundation's matching commitment was part of a broader $20 million initiative in partnership with the Florida Chamber Foundation to expand college access statewide.

Several of those scholarships were awarded at Sunday's ceremony to Big Brothers Big Sisters mentees from Palm Beach and Martin Counties students who have demonstrated hard work, resilience, and a commitment to their futures. Each recipient received a two-year Florida Prepaid College Plan. One Little received a Coke Florida Refreshing Minds Scholarship,SM which will cover four years at a Florida public four-year university, or a two-year college, or technical/vocational school.

Award Recipients Recognized for Excellence in MentorshipThe ceremony also celebrated individuals whose dedication to mentorship has made an extraordinary difference in their communities.

Partner in Potential Award: Mrs. Stacey Chavers, Director of Nursing and Medical Career Academy Coordinator at Inlet Grove High School in Riviera Beach, was honored with the Partner in Potential Award for her exceptional dedication to Big Brothers Big Sisters' Beyond School Walls Program. Mrs. Chavers has served as a vital bridge between families, students, and the organization — coordinating site visits, championing program activities, and going above and beyond to connect her students with mentorship opportunities outside the traditional school setting.

Partner in Potential: Larry Port. Since becoming a mentor in 2023, Larry has been matched with four mentees, including two students who successfully completed the program and graduated from high school with his guidance. He is currently mentoring two Littles and has further supported youth by serving as a guest speaker for professional development workshops on the college search process, even inviting his wife to share her expertise on college essays. His mentees describe him as easy to talk to, outgoing, fun, smart, helpful, and knowledgeable, and, most importantly, as someone who truly cares about their success.

Big and Little Sister of the Year: Carrie Katz and Parris Vails were recognized as Big and Little Sister of the Year for a bond that exemplifies the heart of mentorship — a relationship rooted in genuine connection, mutual growth, and unwavering belief in each other.

Big and Little Brother of the Year (Local & State): Matthew and Joshua were honored as Big and Little Brother of the Year — not only locally, but also at the state level, earning the distinction of Big Brother and Little Brother of the Year for the State of Florida. Since being matched, Joshua has grown in confidence, improved academically, and begun envisioning his future in college and a career. Their match is a testament to the power of consistent presence, listening, and trust.

Student Big and Little of the Year: Ava Witt and Brooklyn McAllister have formed a special bond since being matched in 2025 through the school-based program at Pinewood Elementary. Through weekly visits filled with games, crafts, conversation, and even learning golf together through The First Tee, Brooklyn has grown more comfortable and connected, sharing, “I feel like now she’s like my real big sister!” Their match reflects the power of friendship, consistency, and caring support.

Distinguished Guests and Community PartnersThe event welcomed several distinguished guests, including Mariota Theodoris of Florida Power & Light and Port of Palm Beach Vice Chair Commissioner Deandre Poole. These opportunities were made possible through the generous support of Florida Power & Light, the Florida Prepaid College Foundation, and Coca-Cola Beverages Florida.

"You are the bridge between where these young people are and where they are going. You are the voice they will hear in their heads years from now when they're facing a hard decision. Thank you for showing up. Thank you for staying. Thank you for believing." — Dr. Stephanie Poole, Master of Ceremonies