WATERVILLE — Waldo County Big Sister/Little Sister duo Syrena Gatewood and Danielle were recognized as Community-Based Match of the Year during a celebration in Waterville.

More than 120 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine participants and their families celebrated their matches at the Alfond Youth Center in Waterville. Attendees from all six of the counties served by the agency enjoyed swimming, rock climbing, bounce houses, and pizza.

The annual event gives program participants the chance to meet other matches from different parts of the state and celebrate the bonds the matches have formed. 

Along with the award given to Gatewood and Danielle, CEO Alex Gaeth and members of the BBBS program staff presented the following recognition awards:

School-Based Matches of the Year: Travis Wibby and Nathaniel (Lewis Libby School)

Kolby Shaw and Hannah (Gardiner)

Never Miss Life Award:   Josh Blaine and Mitchell (Penobscot County)

Reach and Rise Program First Match:   Bill Atchison, Jr. and Gage (Kennebec County)

Each award recipient received a BBBS hooded sweatshirt. 

Kelsi Thibeau and her Little Sister Sophia designed the winning event flyer that was used to promote the event.

 “This is an event our staff looks forward to each year,” said Gaeth.  “To see these matches come together, under one roof, and to see how their relationships have grown over the past year is always exciting and special.  The joy on their faces is evident, and the camaraderie among the group is incredible.”

The event was sponsored by Pizza Hut, Pine State Trading, The Alfond Youth Center, and Cyr Bus.

Last year, BBBSMM served a record 787 youth through its School-Based and Community-Based Mentoring program, with more than 65 adult mentors, 40 school coordinators, and programs in 31 schools.

For more information about Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine or to learn about volunteering opportunities, call 236-BBBS (2227).