New Name, Same Mission: Big Brothers Big Sisters Celebrates Name Change

ZANESVILLE, Ohio — Big Brothers Big Sisters of Zanesville has undergone a name change.

The organization is now known as Big Brothers Big Sisters of Appalachian Ohio. The change follows a successful year for the mentoring organization. A recognition dinner was held Tuesday at Bryan’s Place to honor mentors and announce the name change.

“We are here announcing our name change. We were Big Brothers Big Sisters of Zanesville and now we are Big Brothers Big Sisters of Appalachian Ohio,” said Sawyer James, vice president of programs for BBBS of Appalachian Ohio.

“I think the exciting thing that’s been happening over the last couple years is the growth that the agency has had, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Zanesville felt small for the impact we feel like we’re having in the region. So, we’re excited to expand the name and expand our impact in southeastern Ohio and around the area,” said Board President Megan Durst.

The organization said the new name better reflects the broader region it serves. While its office remains in Zanesville, its impact has extended across multiple counties, prompting a rebrand that includes all the communities it supports.

“When we’re out in the community, we serve five surrounding counties. When we’re in those counties, it’s going to be great that we’re recognizing them as well. We’re not just servicing Zanesville, so whenever we have conversations with our community supporters and our partners, they’re going to be included now. It’s a very inclusive name for our surrounding counties that we serve,” James added.

The dinner served as an opportunity to highlight and celebrate those who make Big Brothers Big Sisters what it is.