Lexington, KY, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Lavina Baxter is set to receive the Legacy Award during a fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass, highlighting her 53 years of mentorship. Baxter’s relationship with her ‘little sister,’ Juanita Golden, has had a profound impact, guiding Golden through her education and helping her become the first college graduate in her family. Despite living in different states now, their bond remains strong. The event also marks the selection of Big Brothers Big Sisters as the Community Partner of Choice by the University of Kentucky Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
Lexington, KY Honors Lavina Baxter with Legacy Award for Mentorship
Lavina Baxter will receive the Legacy Award during a significant fundraiser for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass, recognizing her unparalleled commitment to mentorship over a span of 53 years. The award emphasizes Baxter’s longstanding relationship with her “little sister,” Juanita Golden, which began when Baxter was a young woman living in Lexington.
Matched when Golden was an elementary school student, Baxter and Golden established an immediate bond. Baxter described Golden as having an engaging personality that complemented her own persistent nature. Through her mentorship, Baxter provided essential support for Golden, guiding her through the often challenging middle and high school years. This relationship proved crucial in helping Golden overcome obstacles during her education.
Thanks to Baxter’s encouragement, Juanita Golden attended Berea College, ultimately becoming the first college graduate in her family. Despite the physical distance that has grown between them, as they now live in different states, Baxter and Golden have maintained a strong connection throughout the decades. In recognition of the profound impact of Baxter’s mentorship, Golden reached out to the organization to honor her devoted mentor.
Baxter expressed that the relationship provided mutual benefits, noting she felt she gained more from the experience than she contributed. This sentiment highlights a core principle of the Big Brothers Big Sisters program, which is to foster transformative connections between children and mentors.
Community Involvement
In related news, the University of Kentucky Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) has selected Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass as their “Community Partner of Choice” for the 2025-26 academic year. The committee’s president highlighted their excitement about creating meaningful relationships with the organization, strengthening community ties.
In the past, SAAC has partnered with various organizations including Fayette County Public Schools and UK Healthcare Kentucky Children’s Hospital for outreach initiatives. This summer, over 100 student-athletes participated in a community service event alongside Big Brothers Big Sisters mentees, demonstrating the program’s broad reach and community impact.
Upcoming Events and Leadership
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass is also gearing up for several fundraising events, including the BC Wood Golf Classic on September 8 and the Big in the Bluegrass Gala scheduled for October 11. These events aim to sustain and expand their mentoring programs and serve local youth.
In leadership news, Chris Peck has been appointed as the new CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass. Bringing over 15 years of non-profit experience, Peck previously directed programs at Bellewood & Brooklawn in Louisville. His background in community engagement, program development, and donor management is expected to significantly bolster the organization’s mission to support youth mentorship.
As a past Big Brother and an active participant in child welfare initiatives in Kentucky, Peck’s experience aligns well with the organization’s efforts to build and maintain impactful, one-on-one mentoring relationships.
Mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters
The overarching mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass is to create and support mentoring relationships that empower local youth to reach their full potential. With mentors like Baxter leading the way, the organization continues to inspire and change lives in the community.
FAQ
What is the Legacy Award?
The Legacy Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment and impact in mentoring roles, specifically within the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.
Who is Lavina Baxter?
Lavina Baxter is a longtime mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass, known for her 53-year mentorship of Juanita Golden.
What impact has Lavina Baxter had on Juanita Golden?
Through her mentorship, Baxter helped Golden navigate challenges in her education, ultimately guiding her to become the first college graduate in her family.
What upcoming events does Big Brothers Big Sisters have planned?
Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass has several fundraising events scheduled, including the BC Wood Golf Classic on September 8 and the Big in the Bluegrass Gala on October 11.
Who is the new CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Bluegrass?
Chris Peck has been appointed as the new CEO, bringing extensive experience in non-profit management and community engagement.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Legacy Award | Honors Lavina Baxter for 53 years of mentorship. |
| Juanita Golden | First college graduate in her family, mentored by Baxter. |
| Fundraising Events | BC Wood Golf Classic (Sept 8) and Big in the Bluegrass Gala (Oct 11). |
| New Leadership | Chris Peck appointed as new CEO. |
| Community Involvement | SAAC selected BBBS as the Community Partner of Choice for 2025-26. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Lex18: Lexington Woman Honored for 53-Year Mentorship
- UK Athletics: BBBS Bluegrass as Community Partner of Choice
- Kentucky.com: Article on BBBS and Local Events
- Lane Report: New CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Lex18: Big Brothers Big Sisters Transforms Lives
- Wikipedia: Mentorship
- Google Search: Big Brothers Big Sisters
- Google Scholar: Mentoring
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Mentoring
- Google News: Big Brothers Big Sisters
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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