Legacy Luncheon inspires community, raises $350k+ for youth

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta (BBBSMA) is thrilled to announce the overwhelming success of its 2025 Legacy Luncheon, presented by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. The event welcomed 240 guests at the Fox Theatre on Nov. 12 and raised over $350,000 to support BBBSMA’s life-changing youth mentoring programs.

Click here to see the Legacy Luncheon photo gallery.

The program featured an engaging panel moderated by Karyn Greer, with panelists Morgan Shaw Parker, President and COO of the Atlanta Dream, and Shane Jackson, President of Jackson Healthcare. They shared insights on the transformative power of mentorship and the impact of community support on young people across Metro Atlanta.

A highlight of the luncheon was the presentation of the B. Thomas Murray Founders Award to Rita Breen for her outstanding service as a mentor and board member. Rita was introduced by her Little, Bailey, who shared heartfelt reflections on the profound difference Rita has made in her life.

“There are hundreds of stories that are beautiful, that are told by many mentees and mentors when they graduate on what they’ve been able to accomplish,” Rita said.

The luncheon also celebrated Outstanding Graduates Benjamin and Lailah, who were honored for their achievements and awarded scholarships generously gifted by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation to support the next chapter in their educational journeys.

As we serve more than 3,000 young people this year, events like the Legacy Luncheon remind us what’s possible when Atlanta shows up for its youth,” BBBSMA President and CEO Kwame Johnson said. “The individuals we honor today represent the best of what mentorship can do—lifting graduation rates, expanding opportunity, and creating pathways for long-term success. Their leadership strengthens our community and inspires us to keep growing.”