Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County recently celebrated volunteer mentors Brian McGrath as Big Brother of the Year and Samara Minichiello as Big Sister of the Year at its annual Big Thank You Breakfast presented by Bank of America.
“Our Bigs truly are the lifeblood of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County,” said Malena Mendez, President and CEO of the organization. “Brian and Samara, in particular, epitomize how effective mentoring changes the lives of youth for the better, forever. Because of their efforts, we see their Littles thrive, become stronger and more confident, while laying down a strong foundation for future success. We are so grateful for them.”
Big Brother of the Year Brian McGrath was matched with Bryson when he was a shy 8-year-old facing a myriad of challenges. His Big became a stable and supportive figure in his life, and over the past four years, Brian has encouraged Bryson in academics, sports, and personal growth, helping him build confidence, resilience, and important life skills. From bonding over basketball to reading together, their relationship has blossomed into a true friendship. Brian’s consistent support and dedication have made a lasting difference in Bryson’s life.
Big Sister of the Year Samara Minichiello has been a Big Sister to 13-year-old Jahniya for nearly three years. She has supported Jahniya through multiple trials, ranging from a precarious home situation to her mother’s debilitating illness. Minichiello describes her Little as “the poster child for resilience,” and has developed a special bond with Jahniya, rooted in trust and doing the right thing – even when it’s difficult. In addition to being a stand-out Big Sister, Samara has encouraged her friends and family to become Bigs and currently serves as co-chair for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward’s Women on the Verge, which raised funds for scholarships.
Jasmine Bush, a junior at South Plantation High School, was named High School Big Sister of the Year, Vandylia Caldwell-Dent, a 28-year veteran teacher at Country Hills Elementary in Coral Springs, was selected as Defender of Potential, and Tamara Ryan, Director of Program Services for the past 12 years, was chosen as Employee of the Year.
The Grant Cardone Foundation celebrated the Bigs of the Year at the Big Thank You Breakfast and was recognized as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward’s 2025 Corporate Partner of the Year for its consistent, generous commitment to supporting the nonprofit’s mission of igniting the power and promise of youth through lifechanging mentoring relationships.
Bank of America was the presenting sponsor of the event. Additional sponsors included AGM University, JM Family Enterprises, Memorial Healthcare System, BBX Capital and OneDigital.
About Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County
For more than 50 years, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County has offered unprecedented access to resources to empower youth to reach their full potential through meaningful mentoring relationships. These mentoring relationships build self-confidence and emotional well-being, encourage young people to stay on a path to graduation and higher education, and help them establish a plan for a successful future. The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County is to ignite the power and promise of youth. For more information, visit www.bbbsbroward.org.
