2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Orlando Navedo as the recipient of the 2024 Ronald Mobayed Military Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade is awarded to a Big who has made an exceptional impact on their Little’s life.
Orlando, a Defense Paralegal for the U.S. Navy, has been a dedicated mentor to his Little Brother Bryan since they were first matched in February 2023. The two immediately bonded, and Bryan expressed a desire to enhance his basketball skills. Orlando wholeheartedly embraced this goal, fostering their relationship through regular outings to the YMCA for basketball practice, as well as attending Bryan’s games and end-of-season banquet. They have also enjoyed many meals together, further strengthening their bond.
Orlando is not only a consistent and supportive Big, but he’s also a passionate advocate for Big Brothers Big Sisters. He and Bryan frequently participate in agency events and were prominently featured in our annual impact video for the 2024 Big Gala: Cosmic Connections, where they shared what makes their relationship special. They also participated in the Big Gala, enthusiastically embracing the event’s space theme and warmly engaging with attendees.
Orlando exemplifies the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida, as well as the spirit of Lt. Ronald Joseph Mobayed, this award’s namesake. Lt. Mobayed was an outstanding Big Brother while he was stationed in Pensacola for flight training in the early 1990’s. Tragically, on October 3, 1995, Ron and his crew were killed in the line of duty while responding to a distress signal. This award honors our military volunteers and is given to a Big who demonstrates the same commitment to their Little, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and the children of our community.
Orlando’s colleagues collaborated with our staff to surprise Orlando with the award during a ceremony at the National Museum of Naval Aviation aboard NAS Pensacola. During the ceremony, Bryan shared his heartfelt thoughts about his Big Brother: “Orlando, out of all the matches, I was blessed with you. When we first met I was nervous, but now I feel like a brother to you. You helped me find who I really am and you inspire me in so many ways. One special way you inspire me is to do and try new things. To the best Big, my Big Brother Orlando.”
Badges Big of the Year
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida proudly announces Lieutenant Chris Coram as the recipient of our 2024 Bigs with Badges Big of the Year award. This prestigious accolade celebrates Lieutenant Coram’s exceptional dedication to fostering trust, respect, and mentorship within our community through his involvement in our Bigs with Badges program.
The Bigs with Badges initiative serves as a vital bridge between the youth of our community and those who protect, serve, and support us through their chosen professions. These Bigs include: police officers, sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, correctional officers, EMT’s, state troopers, state and federal employees, and military personnel.
Lieutenant Chris Coram, a respected figure within the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, exemplifies the spirit of mentorship and community engagement. Inspired by the mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters, Lieutenant Coram joined the program in 2017, committing to supporting and guiding his Little Brother Sheriod.
Their journey began when Sheriod was just 7 years-old, and over the past seven years, their bond has grown stronger, transcending milestones and challenges.
As Sheriod now prepares to enter high school, he reflects on the profound impact Lieutenant Coram has had on his life, describing him as a source of stability and inspiration, saying, “Mr. Chris means a lot to me. We’ve been hanging out for the longest and will always make memories. The first day I met him I thought my life would be the same, but it has changed me in a way that I hoped. I’ve met new people, I’ve gone to special places and overall he helps me. I am thankful for him.”