Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida Announces the 2026 Virginia Thomas Big of the Year in Bay County
Panama City, FL - Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is proud to announce Rebecca Page as the recipient of the 2026 Virginia Thomas Big of the Year award in Bay County. This award recognizes a mentor who exemplifies extraordinary commitment, compassion, and service to youth in the community.
Rebecca has been a dedicated Big Sister to her Little Sister Allie, since October 2021. At the time of their match, Allie needed a strong role model to support her both academically and socially. She even admitted to the agency that she disliked reading.
Over the past five years, Rebecca has supported Allie's reading development, and the pair has spent countless hours reading together. Rebecca helped Allie discover a passion for reading, turning it into a hobby she now loves.
Allie's self-confidence in school has soared, thanks to her Big Sister's encouragement and belief that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to. Allie truly sees Rebecca as her Big Sister.
"She always told me that you can do so many things in your life, and that has stuck with me forever." Allie said, "She makes me want to finish school and become a Marine Biologist. Without her, I probably wouldn't be as smart or kind- she makes me want to be a better version of myself."
The pair shares a unique bond. Allie's mother, Angie, often refers to them as "two peas in a pod," and many people mistake them for actual sisters.
"She has made a huge impact by being involved in Allie's life and our family as a whole." Angie said, "She has played a major role in helping Allie succeed in school and prepare for college. We appreciate Rebecca's sacrifice
and dedication as a Big Sister to Allie."
In addition to her five years as a Big Sister, Rebecca also supports our organization through volunteering at events, sponsorship efforts and mentor recruitment. Through her mentorship of Allie, she demonstrates how one person can change a life.
Her impact has earned her recognition as the 2026 Virginia Thomas Big of the Year. This award honors longtime community advocate Virginia Thomas, whose legacy of service to youth continues to inspire. Presented annually, the award recognizes mentors who go above and beyond, a standard Rebecca Page meets through her consistency, compassion and unwavering support.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida extends its gratitude for her dedication to empowering youth and helping Allie reach her full potential.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida has been the area’s leader in one-to-one youth service for 36 years by providing caring, adult mentors to children ages 5-18 and beyond. Our mission is to help children reach their< potential through professionally supported, positive relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth. Our ultimate goal is for our Littles to be self-sufficient and earning a living wage by the age of 25. Last year, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida served 723 children in Northwest Florida. For more information, visit BeTheBig.org.