Honoring Our Mentors
January 29, 2026 starting @ 5:30 PM
EarlyWorks Grand Hall
Dinner | Entertainment | Awards
Special Performance: Violin Virtuoso Richmond Punch
Keynote Speaker: Local Legend David Battle
Emcees: Kenneth Anderson & Toni Terrell
This January, step into an evening filled with heart, hope, and celebration as we honor the power of mentorship during National Mentoring Month. Our 14th annual Honoring Our Mentors event is more than a ceremony—it's a tribute to the everyday heroes who shape lives and strengthen our community. Join us for a night that brings together passionate individuals, corporate champions, and families to recognize those who make a lasting difference in the lives of young people across North Alabama.
Featured Entertainment
Performance & Powerful Message by Richmond Punch - Violinist Extraordinaire
We are honored to present an inspiring musical performance and keynote address by Richmond Punch, an internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso and former Little Brother. Richmond brings a powerful message of excellence, perseverance, and the transformative power of mentorship through his extraordinary musical performance.
About Richmond Punch:
- Classically trained at The Juilliard School of New York City
- Master of Music from Yale University
- Former Little Brother
- Over 20 years of professional performance experience
- Featured artist in major productions and performances
Richmond's journey from classical training to international acclaim exemplifies the impact that dedicated mentorship and guidance can have on a young person's life. His performance will demonstrate how mentorship and the arts can inspire, uplift, and create pathways to success for young people in our community.
Mentorship changes lives. This event showcases the power of relationships between mentors and youth, featuring moving success stories, world-class musical inspiration, and creative works that inspire and connect our community. Our annual celebration brings together passionate individuals, corporate champions, and families to recognize those who make a lasting difference in the lives of young people across North Alabama.
A Huge Thank you to our 2026 Honoring Our Mentors Sponsors! Legacy Sponsor
Legacy Sponsor
Leader Sponsors
Patron Sponsors
Alpha Phi Alpha | Rex Reynolds | Andy Whitt | Torch Technologies | Keel Point | Tom Butler | Laura Hall
Beverage Sponsors
Yellowhammer Brewing
Keynote Speaker
Keynote by David Battle - Local Legend
We are honored to welcome David Battle, Deputy Executive Director of Partnership for a Drug-Free Community, as our keynote speaker. David's journey from All-American football recruit to substance abuse program leader exemplifies the transformative power of mentorship and second chances. David Battle is a nationally ranked former Auburn University football player who overcame addiction and incarceration to become a leading voice in substance abuse counseling and recovery. After earning his Master's in Counseling Psychology from Alabama A&M University, David became the first former inmate in Alabama history to be employed by the state as a drug treatment counselor in the facility where he was once incarcerated. His extraordinary rehabilitation earned him a full pardon from the State of Alabama in 2008.
As an experienced substance abuse program manager with advanced certifications including Advanced Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor and Certified Peer Support Specialist, David has dedicated his career to helping individuals overcome addiction and destructive behaviors. He currently serves as Deputy Executive Director of Partnership for a Drug-Free Community and sits on multiple boards, including REAL FATHERS MAKING A DIFFERENCE and the Alabama Alcohol and Drug Abuse Association. David's message of resilience, recovery, and the life-changing impact of mentorship aligns perfectly with Big Brothers Big Sisters' mission of creating transformative relationships that help young people reach their full potential.
Your Hosts for the Evening
Kenny Anderson and Toni Terrell
Kenny Anderson is Executive Director of Leadership Empowerment Enterprise and has been host and producer of "2nd Chance," a weekly radio talk show on WJOU 90.1 FM, since 1990. A former Multicultural Affairs Officer and DEI Director for the City of Huntsville, Kenny is a nationally recognized expert in leadership development, mentoring training, and community engagement. His work in promoting mental wellness and community engagement has earned him numerous awards including the 2024 Deborah Soule Spirit of Partnership Award.
Toni Terrell, known as "Your Best Girlfriend," brings over 30 years of radio experience to 94.1 WHRP, where she serves as Program Director and made station history in 2022 as the first woman to anchor morning drive in Huntsville. Through her signature segments—"That's My Business," spotlighting entrepreneurs, and "What's Good in the Neighborhood," highlighting community developments—Toni champions local voices and creates space for others to shine. Her decades of breaking barriers for women of color in broadcasting and commitment to empowering the next generation embody the transformative impact of mentorship.
Evening Highlights
- Keynote Address - David Battle shares his powerful story of transformation and the critical role mentorship plays in recovery and success
- Opening Performance - Richmond Punch will open the evening with an inspiring musical performance and keynote that celebrates the power of mentorship and artistic excellence.
- Recognition Ceremony - Heartfelt recognition of outstanding mentors and volunteers who make a difference in young lives.
- Powerful Testimonials - Stories from youth and families whose lives have been transformed through mentorship programs.
- Great Prizes - auction, bottle pull, and door prizes throughout the evening
- Musical Interludes - Richmond Punch will provide musical accompaniment throughout the evening, creating an inspiring atmosphere for celebration.
- Networking Reception - Connect with community leaders, advocates, and fellow changemakers committed to youth development.
- Corporate Recognition - Special acknowledgment of companies that champion youth development in our region.
Richmond Punch's presence at our event highlights the important role that arts mentorship plays in youth development. His journey from student to internationally recognized artist demonstrates how proper guidance, training, and belief in potential can transform lives. This aligns perfectly with Big Brothers Big Sisters' mission of creating life-changing mentoring relationships.
Be a Defender of Potential
Help us create more "little moments and big magic" in young lives. Your support fuels life-changing relationships and opens doors for children across North Alabama to pursue their dreams, whether in academics, arts, or any field where they show potential. Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Tennessee Valley means more than brand visibility—it's a commitment to building a stronger, more resilient community where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Sponsorship & Tickets
Sponsorship opportunities are available now. This special evening featuring Richmond Punch promises to be our most inspiring event yet.
For more information, contact: ehickson@bbbstv.org or call us at (256) 880-2123.
PayPal, Venmo, and Credit Card Sponsorship Purchase Options:
Company name included in the event title
Registration for 2 tables seating 8 & mentor recognition opportunity
Company signage displayed at event
Company logo featured in event advertising materials, exclusive social media posts, event webpage, and event program
Registration for 1 table seating 8 & mentor recognition opportunity
Company signage displayed at event
Company logo featured in exclusive social media posts, event webpage, and event program
Registration for 1 table seating 8 & mentor recognition opportunity
Company logo included in social media post, event webpage, and event program
Registration for 1 table seating 8 & mentor recognition opportunity
Company name included in the event program
Individual event registration.
Dinner, drinks and entertainment included.
Please contact us for cash, check or ACH
Thank you for your support!
Mentorship changes lives—and this event showcases just how powerful those relationships can be. From moving success stories to vibrant art created by local youth, every moment is designed to inspire and connect.
HOM FAQ
HOM Countdown
For more information please contact Ebony at ehickson@bbbstv.org or (256) 880-2123.