Hundreds of young lives across Southeast Michigan depend on mentorship, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeast Michigan (BBBSSEM) is ensuring they receive the support necessary for success. Through one-to-one mentorship programs, BBBSSEM provides life-changing guidance that too many children in our communities go without. The Great Big Auction, a premier fundraising event, will bring together supporters, community leaders, and businesses to sustain programs that match local youth with dedicated adult mentors. This event takes place on Thursday, March 20, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Cambria Hotel in Detroit. VIP ticket holders receive early access at 5:30 p.m., with general admission beginning at 6 p.m. The auction commences at 7:20 p.m.
BBBSSEM, in collaboration with Be A Part of Me Consulting, has designed an evening to entertain, inspire, and raise crucial funds for mentorship programs. The event will feature a live performance by the Urban Art Orchestra, networking opportunities, raffles, a live and online silent auction, and an opportunity to contribute to a mission that impacts young lives. Attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and the chance to bid on unique experiential auction packages. Every dollar raised strengthens mentorship programs that empower young people to build confidence, develop new skills, and prepare for bright futures.
BBBSSEM Development Director Anne Marie Veneroni emphasized the significance of this event. “The Great Big Auction is a win/win for the community and the kids we serve. Join us for a great night and support our mission to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.”
This evening highlights the essential role of mentorship in young lives. The impact of these programs is clear in the experiences of mentees who develop resilience, leadership skills, and academic success through dedicated mentorship. Proceeds from this event allow more children in Southeast Michigan to experience these life-changing relationships.
BBBSSEM encourages event sponsorship, individual ticket sales, and participation in the Golden Ticket opportunity. Golden Ticket holders, with a $100 contribution, have the chance to win a significant prize, even without attending the event. Contributions through ticket purchases, sponsorship, or auction item donations help provide children with caring mentors who help shape their futures.
Chief Experience Officer & Sports Philanthropist Ebony Walls, of Be A Part of Me Consulting, stressed the importance of community involvement in this initiative. “As a lifelong BBBS volunteer, myself and the drafted Champions have the honor of sharing the BBBSSEM mission with our personal and professional communities, by demonstrating the impact that youth mentoring has on all of us. I invite every business to get in the game and help us score BIG on March 20th.”
The event has drawn significant sponsorship support from businesses and organizations committed to the development of local youth. Ford Credit, HOUR Detroit, Honigman, HAP CareSource, The Singhi Family, Stout, Rotary Michigan, Pawn Stars, SJMB Enterprises, The Kitchen: By Cooking with Que, Nothing Bundt Cake, and Parlay Detroit are among those whose generosity makes this evening possible.
Reneé Hawkins, Ford Credit Executive Director of Transformation, reinforced the significance of corporate support in expanding mentorship access. “Ford Credit has long supported Big Brothers Big Sisters, and we’re a proud sponsor of the auction because so many children need a ‘big’ in their lives. The Great Big Auction helps rally our community, and proceeds go toward matching children with adults who will share their time, guidance and support.”
Each bid, sponsorship, and ticket sold contributes to a movement that changes lives. Mentorship provides young people with positive role models who offer direction, encouragement, and advocacy. This event brings the community together to celebrate the power of mentorship and invest in the future of the next generation.
Those who attend will take part in an evening that contributes to a lasting impact for families and communities. Investing in a child’s potential today builds stronger communities tomorrow, and BBBSSEM is providing the foundation for that transformation.
To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate, visit https://bbbssoutheastmi.org/great-big-auction/. Supporting this event is more than an evening out—it is a commitment to uplifting and empowering the youth of Southeast Michigan. Those who show up, donate, and participate are partners in a mission that ensures every child has the chance to succeed with the support of a mentor who believes in them.