Big Futures
Big Futures is a recent addition to the offerings of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands. This initiative aims to extend services to young adults up to the age of 26 who are part of our programming. The program is tailored to provide guidance and support to older mentees currently enrolled in our Omaha/Council Bluffs area Community-Based and MentorU programs.
At the heart of the Big Futures program lies the commitment to helping mentees navigate the four pivotal E's of their future:
- Education in college/university or trade school
- Enlistment in the military
- Becoming an Entrepreneur
- Employment toward earning a living wage
HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK?
Big Futures Program Coordinators will take a personalized, one-on-one approach to guide mentees in setting meaningful goals that align with their hopes and dreams. Working in close collaboration with the mentees, Big Futures Coordinators connect them with professionals who are experts in their fields. Whether that be recruiters from the military, successful entrepreneurs, or contacts within colleges and universities, the program aims to inspire and empower mentees, offering them insights, opportunities, and a clear path to their aspirations.
2024 IMPACT
EXPERIENCES
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Aaliyah Explores a Future in Real Estate
Big Futures mentee Aaliyah connected with Angel Starks, a Realtor with the Locale Real Estate Group and Director of Business Development at The { } Exchange, to explore a future in real estate.
During their conversation, Angel shared what it takes to become a realtor and how realtors earn a living. She introduced Aaliyah to the many paths within the “real estate ecosystem,” including selling homes, property management, advocacy, lobbying, house flipping, and more, helping her see how passion and purpose can align in the industry.
Angel also walked Aaliyah through a real-world example of how compensation works per client, which helped put the career into perspective. Aaliyah left the experience feeling optimistic, open-minded about the possibilities in real estate, and excited to continue the connection she formed with Angel.
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David Finds Success Academically
David completed his Associate Degree in Auto Collision Technology from Metropolitan Community College while working full-time. BBBS staff and his family proudly watched him walk across the graduation stage, celebrating everything he had worked for.
David isn’t slowing down. He is now pursuing Powersports and Outdoor Power Technology at MCC. With help securing scholarships, including an extension of his Susan T. Buffett Scholarship and a newly earned True Potential Scholarship.
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Ne'Cauje Meets Local Sous Chef
Big Futures mentee Ne’Cauje had the opportunity to connect with Sous Chef Wyatt Kosalka at Block 16, a locally loved restaurant known for its farm-to-table street food. Since opening in 2012, Block 16’s owners have been nominated for a James Beard Award and featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Sous Chef Wyatt shared his personal journey into the culinary world—from discovering his passion for cooking at a young age to competing in high school culinary competitions, where a mentor helped guide his dreams. He went on to attend culinary school at Metropolitan Community College before transferring to the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute. His career includes experience in fine dining at a French restaurant in Portland and working alongside Top Chef competitor Chris Cosentino.
A strong believer in mentorship, Sous Chef Wyatt gave Ne’Cauje a behind-the-scenes tour of Block 16’s bustling kitchen, explaining how chefs navigate the fast-paced environment, plan daily specials, and prepare for events. He even invited Ne’Cauje to return this summer for a “stage” (culinary internship) to see the chefs in action.
Ne’Cauje loved the experience and left feeling inspired, encouraged, and excited about the possibilities within the culinary world.
