UPDATE: We’re lowering our fundraising goal for The Big Match from $45k to $25k. But there’s a good reason. For the past 3 years The Big Match has been fueled by a “Big Match”, unfortunately due to unforeseen circumstances our matching gift of $10k fell through this year. Each year this "Big Match” drives momentum and doubles the impact of each donor's gift. So, without it, we decided to take a step back and set a more realistic goal.

Help us close the final gap and reach our goal!

We’re raising $25,000 to match 30 Littles across the Inland Northwest with caring mentors who can help them build confidence, connection, and a brighter future.

Right now, dozens of kids are waiting for a Big. With summer approaching, we have an opportunity to ensure they’re not left without the support they need during a critical time.

Mentorship changes lives—leading to stronger relationships, improved self-esteem, and better mental health outcomes.

You can be part of that impact. Every dollar helps create a life-changing match.

Join us on May 30th at Wonderground Pickleball Courts for The Big Match!

This 2 vs. 2 tournament will feature competitive and for-fun divisions. Plus, you can earn extra points prior to the tournament by registering as a fundraiser and raising money to support The Big Match. A donation of $50 or more earns your team a spot for the tournament! Prizes will be awarded for tournament winners and for point accumulation across you pickleball play and fundraising efforts!

Details:

10am — Skills clinic hosted by The Flying Pickle - Post Falls (all levels welcome)

12pm — Match play begins

Lunch provided by David's Pizza (pizza, salad, and a beverage)

There will be a for fun and a competitive division.

Little, Caitlyn, came to Big Brothers Big Sisters seeking a mentor to spend time with and was matched with a new Big named Claire in the Spring of 2025! For their first Match outing the pair went to the mall to explore. They perused the Build-a-Bear workshop, wandered through stores, and indulged in some Boba Tea, something that Claire was not a fan of but was easily convinced by an enthusiastic Caitlyn.

“It makes me stop being bored, I’m sometimes bored at home and get to spend more time with [Claire] and have fun, which I like” – Caitlyn

In the short time since being matched, Caitlyn has shown meaningful positive growth. Caitlyn has gotten better at navigating her emotions, she is doing better in school, and she has even started participating in more activities like recently re-joining her old dance team! As Caitlyn continues to navigate the challenges that come with being a seventh grader, Claire is right by her side every step of the way!

Meet Little Rider and Big Mason, a Site-Based Plus Match at Broadway Elementary. This Match is a profund example of shared lived experience which has allowed Mason to approach Rider with a unique level of empathy and patience. Because Mason “connected on the way they grew up,” he was able to slowly crack the shell of a young boy.

As a Site-Based Plus Match Rider and Mason meet at Rider’s school once per week and in the summer they spend time out in the community. When the pair meet at school they often eat lunch together before heading out on the playground to play soccer or football alongside some of Rider’s friends. Last summer the Match spent time together out in the community on the football field at Rider’s practices and at Dave & Busters to celebrate Rider’s 11th birthday.

Rider has shown tremendous growth during this Match according to his teacher, counselor, and family and is even earning academic awards in school. In a full-circle moment of support, Mason recently attended Rider’s academic award ceremony, standing alongside Rider’s grandmother, aunt, and his mother.