Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fond du Lac County is proud to honor The Sparkle Studio’s Christine Peck as the 2026 Big of the Year! She is being recognized for more than a decade of outstanding mentorship.
Christine was first matched with Little Sister Brooke in 2015 when Brooke was just 7 years old. Now 18, Brooke has reached the major milestone of high school graduation. To Christine, being a mentor means being there for Brooke through every stage of life, “It means spending time with someone who could use a sidekick. It means being there for your sidekick when they are struggling. It means offering advice and being ok they don’t take it. It means gaining a family member.”
As a photographer and owner of The Sparkle Studio, Christine has shared her passion for photography with Brooke. The pair have worked together on photoshoots for senior pictures, prom, and even studio promotions. Outside of photography, they enjoy spending time together over dinner and catching up on life.
“I just love hanging out with Brooke!” said Christine, “I love the friendship we have created over all of these years. She is a part of my family and I a part of hers.”
Christine and Brooke have built the kind of relationship that is at the heart of BBBS. By simply showing up, mentors can help young people grow, build confidence, and reach their full potential. Christine’s consistent presence over the last 11 years has helped Brooke navigate childhood, celebrate important milestones, and prepare for adulthood.
“It has been an absolute joy to see her mature every year into the woman she has become,” said Christine. “She is fiercely loyal, strong, smart, and independent.”
Christine’s impact at BBBS extends beyond her role as a mentor. She recently helped the agency update their professional photography by capturing images of Bigs and Littles throughout the community. These photos are now featured in the organization’s website and marketing efforts, helping to tell stories of mentorship and inspire others to get involved.
Christine will be honored with the 2026 Big of the Year award at The BIG Event presented by Shea Electric & Communications LLC at Hotel Retlaw on Thursday, July 9. If you’d like to celebrate Christine in person, tickets to the event can be purchased at bbbsfdl.org/the-big-event-2026.
“Don’t go into this thinking you are going to make a difference in a child’s life,” said Christine. “They are going to teach you far more than you can ever teach them. And it’s beautiful!”
BBBS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving Fond du Lac County and northern Dodge County. The agency assists children with social, emotional, and character development through 1:1 (one-to-one) and 1:1+ (one-to-one plus) mentoring opportunities in community-based, site-based, and school-based settings. Youth ages 6 and up can enroll in the program through parent or guardian referral. Volunteers ages 16 and up who pass a background check and have a valid driver’s license and auto insurance can be mentors. Visit bbbsfdl.org or call (920) 922-8200 to learn more.