HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Central Carolinas celebrated the 20th anniversary of its “Big Day at the Lake” event Saturday on Lake Norman. It's a day that provides fun, memories, and a path to success for the youth served by the group.
The event helps the organization connect "bigs" (Big Brothers and Big Sisters) with their "littles" (Little Brothers and Little Sisters). Donna Dunlap, president of the chapter, said BBBS is a key part of ensuring kids have a bright path forward.
“It just provides and shapes their character," she said. “It helps them build confidence in themselves to get in the water.”
BBBS provides support to children faced with challenging life circumstances. Part of that support involves experiences that let them be kids and unwind.
“Many of our children never seen a lake before never been on a boat, or in the water or on one of those tubes, they just have a blast," Dunlap added.
The lake is not the only tool helping build the next generation. Ashley Farquharson, a Beijing 2022 Winter Olympian who competed in the luge event, was out connecting with the littles.
"Whether or not they have access to something now, it's not a reason to not do it or be afraid of it," she said. "Always go for what you want.”
Farquharson aims to inspire the youth with her success through luge.
“Pushing the kids to try something new and get a little bit out of their comfort zone," she said.
BBBS hopes it can impact the next generation for years to come.
"By 2033, we want to have the ability to stably serve 3,000 children," Dunlap said. "We need more mentors, we need more funders, we need more support.”
The Big Day at the Lake has raised over $100,000 this year and over $2 million for Big Brothers Big Sisters since its inception in 2004.
Contact Myles Harris at mharris5@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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