Carolyn and Sanai Named 2025
Big & Little of the Year!
Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) of Greater Cleveland is proud to name Big Sister Carolyn Anderson and Little Sister Sanai Nurse, 16, as 2025 Big & Little of the Year.
BLOTY 2025
Carolyn and Sanai were first matched when Sanai was in third grade through our site-based program, meeting weekly for lunch visits at school. A few years later, they transitioned to the community-based program—and they’ve been an important part of each other’s lives ever since.
Now 16, Sanai is known for her humor, compassion, and brilliance. Carolyn describes her as “a bright light in this world and in my life,” and credits Sanai for keeping her in tune with Gen Z.
We’re proud to honor Carolyn and Sanai as our 2025 Big & Little Pair of the Year. Their story is a powerful reminder of how meaningful, lasting, and life-changing a mentoring relationship can be.
LifeLOng connection.
Over the years, the pair has built countless memories together—Cedar Point trips, beach days, hiking, yoga with alpacas, movie nights, and more. Their bond has remained strong through major life milestones. Carolyn’s engagement, wedding, and even the birth of her baby all happened with Sanai by her side. Sanai and her mom even attended Carolyn’s baby shower, and have always made her feel included at milestone moments like graduations and birthday celebrations.
“it has been a privilege to witness their journey, support their efforts, and celebrate the incredible partnership they’ve built. Matches like Carolyn and Sanai represent the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters. Building meaningful relationships that help young people gain confidence, achieve success, and feel supported by their community.”
— Dajah Crawford, BBBS Match Support Specialist
