For Immediate Release
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Amanda Koenn
AKA Integrated Marketing
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Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida Announces 2026 Florida Bigs of the Year
TAMPA, FL — Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida is proud to announce the 2026 Florida Big Sister of the Year, Ally Capriotti of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida, and the 2026 Florida Big Brother of the Year, Matthew Billitti of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Palm Beach & Martin Counties.
This annual recognition highlights volunteers who exemplify the life-changing impact of mentorship and the powerful role caring adults play in helping young people reach their full potential. Each year, Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across Florida nominate outstanding volunteers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to their Littles and their communities. Ally Capriotti and Matthew Billitti were selected from nominees statewide for their long-term dedication, advocacy, and the meaningful growth they have helped inspire in their Littles.
Florida Big Sister of the Year Ally Capriotti has volunteered as a Big Sister for nearly a decade, providing a steady and supportive presence in the life of her Little Sister, Abby, since Abby was just five years old. Over the years, Abby has grown from a quiet and shy child into a confident, expressive, and determined young teen. Today, she ranks among the top middle school cross country and track athletes in Florida, a journey she credits to Ally’s encouragement and support.
Abby says it best. Ally is “the most kind, giving, hilarious person.”
“Ally’s nine-year commitment shows what happens when a young person knows someone will keep showing up,” said Dan Prinzing, CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida. “Her consistency has helped Abby discover her strengths, expand her goals, and believe in herself.”
Florida Big Brother of the Year Matthew Billitti became a Big Brother with the intention of making a meaningful impact in a young person’s life, just as mentors once did for him. His match with his Little Brother, Joshua, has grown into a strong bond built on trust, patience, and shared experiences. With Matthew’s steady encouragement, Joshua, who is autistic, has grown in confidence and self-assurance. Together, they explore Joshua’s interests, from card games to new hobbies.
“Matthew has helped me feel more confident and understand how important I am,” Joshua said. “I have another adult I can trust who helps me when I need it.”
“Matthew embodies the heart of our mission,” said Prinzing. “He shows that mentorship isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about showing up, listening, and believing.”
Both honorees’ impact extends far beyond their individual matches. Capriotti and Billitti have become passionate ambassadors for Big Brothers Big Sisters, helping raise awareness about the importance of mentorship across their communities. Through volunteer leadership, advocacy, and sharing their stories, they have helped inspire others to step forward and become mentors.
“Ally and Matthew remind us that mentorship changes lives,” said Mike Hanna, Chairman of Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida. “Their stories reflect what’s possible when caring adults invest in Florida’s youth with consistency, compassion, and heart.”
Big Brothers Big Sisters mentoring programs are proven to create lasting impact for young people. Research shows that youth in the program are more likely to graduate high school, enroll in college or trade and vocational school, and develop stronger confidence, relationships, and decision-making skills. They are also less likely to engage in risky behaviors or enter the juvenile justice system.
Across Florida, thousands of children are currently waiting to be matched with a mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida works through 11 local agencies serving 54 counties to create strong, safe, and meaningful one-to-one mentoring relationships that help young people build confidence, resilience, and brighter futures.
To learn more about becoming a mentor or supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters programs across Florida, visit www.bbbsflorida.org
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About Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida
Big Brothers Big Sisters Association of Florida (BBBSAF) is the statewide organization that supports and strengthens 11 local Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies serving 54 counties across the state. Through strategic partnerships, grant management, advocacy, and resource development, BBBSAF works to build and sustain a unified system of high-quality youth mentoring programs that expand access to life-changing mentoring relationships for young people throughout Florida. Learn more at www.bbbsflorida.org.