With the combination of BBBS Lincoln and BBBSM underway, we would like to introduce the dedicated staff members of BBBS Lincoln. Additionally, we are excited to welcome two new staff members to BBBSM. Take a moment to meet them below!
Gabby Ayala
Engagement & Events Manager
What made you want to work for BBBS? I have been working in nonprofits for over 16 years and it’s incredibly important to me to do work that gives back to Nebraska communities. I have also been a Big Sister with Big Brothers Big Sisters Lincoln for about 5 years to two different Littles. I’ve been able to see firsthand what mentoring can do for youth and feel very passionate about the lasting benefits of the programs BBBS offers. When I saw an open position with BBBSM, I knew I had to jump at a chance to work for this organization!
What has been the best part of BBBS thus far? It’s been great to see the other programs Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands offers outside of community-based mentoring. Learning about Big Futures and MentorU has been really inspiring to see. It’s awesome to know that the team at BBBSM is always looking at the big picture and finding new ways to create more pathways to success for youth and young adults. I feel lucky to be part of it!
How do you like to spend your free time? In my free time I enjoy being involved in the Lincoln theatre scene, sampling craft beers from independent breweries, socializing with friends & family, traveling, and spending time in the great outdoors. My spouse Braden and I live in a 100+ year old house that we share with two cats (Prudence & Poly) and two dogs (Rigby & Bronco).
Kyle Bishop
Recruitment and Events Coordinator
How long have you worked for BBBSL? 2 ½ years
What is your favorite part of working for BBBSL? The stories! As someone who works in agency outreach, there have been numerous instances of folks sharing how mentoring from BBBS has helped them or someone they know. I always like to ask them more about their experience, and more often than not, Bigs/Littles stay in touch long after their time in the program ends. Experiences like that are inspirational and show the impact of what we do.
How do you like to spend your free time? I enjoy drawing, watching movies/TV, reading, and playing video games! When it’s warmer, I like going outside to explore the community or occasional camping.
Jalin Gerdes
Enrollment and Match Coordinator
How long have you worked for BBBSL? 6 Years
What is your favorite part of working for BBBSL? I enjoy meeting the people who are impacted by BBBSL. Whether that be volunteers, youth, families, donors, board members, staff and community partners. It’s incredibly rewarding to see a match out in the community or to learn how a mentoring relationship is evolving by their Match Support Specialist.
How do you like to spend your free time? I enjoy reading books, exploring the outdoors and spending time with my 3-year-old son and Goldendoodle.
Laura Matthias
Program Manager
How long have you worked for BBBSL? 6.5 Years
What is your favorite part of working for BBBSL? Combined with my 11 years with BBBS of Hastings, I have made some of my strongest friendships and connections with people I met through working for both mentoring programs. BBBS is all about connecting which aligns with what I value most in my life and has given me so much in return!
How do you like to spend your free time? I would love to say that I enjoy traveling and seeing the world, but I mostly spend time with my dog Gracie. I have two married sons and now have two daughters and I love spending time with them and the rest of my family. I also hope to travel more this year.
Melissa Neater
Match Support Specialist
How long have you worked for BBBSL? 24 Years
What is your favorite part of working for BBBSL? It may sound cliche but seeing the difference it makes in a child’s life to have a Big and seeing their world grow by the new experiences and opportunities provided to them through being a part of this program has been what has inspired me to continue to work for this amazing agency for over twenty years and counting.
How do you like to spend your free time? I like to spend time with my family, taking walks, and reading.
Abby Wood
Community Engagement Specialist
What made you want to work for BBBS? I interned with BBBS of Nodaway County. This internship made me incredibly passionate about youth achievement, so I knew I wanted to continue my work with this organization in one way or another. I love getting involved anyway I can, so this was a way to join my professional and personal passions.
What has been the best part of BBBS thus far? So far, the best part has been meeting everyone I will be working with! I can tell BBBSM truly has a collaborative, team-oriented work environment and I really value that. It is amazing to work with people who are just as dedicated to the mission as you are.
How do you like to spend your free time? In my free time I like to try new restaurants and coffee shops, go to concerts, try out new recipes and go on walks!
