How It Started
In 1999 we started as a grassroots organization with a vision to improve the lives of children in our community.
For two years prior to the opening of our agency, community and board members raised funds and began the strenuous task of meeting the National Standards put forth by Big Brothers Big Sisters of America.
It was tough work, but we were driven by our mission.
Since our beginning, we have strived to create matches and improve our programs for the betterment of our community.
Our Mission
Create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
Our Vision
All youth achieve their full potential.
Together We Are Defenders of Potential
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County provides peer mentorship by matching volunteers and youth in our community. These one to one relationships have proved to be a positive life impact on not only our youth but the volunteers who so graciously volunteer their time!
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps children realize their potential and build the foundation for a successful future. We nurture children and strengthen our communities.
Who We are
Scott Jackson (he/him) - Executive Director
Robin Haynes (she/her) - Community Health Worker
Robin Haynes is a Community Health Worker overseeing the DINO program at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Island County (BBBSIC). In this role, she is excited to develop community events aimed at providing children with enriching experiences that enhance their lives. With a degree in Business Administration earned in 2016, Robin approaches her work with a strategic and thoughtful mindset, dedicated to creating programs that empower youth to reach their full potential and explore new opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
A proud member of a military family, Robin has had the privilege of living in amazing places such as Hawaii, Florida, Virginia, and now Washington. Originally from a small town in Arkansas, she finds a sense of home on Whidbey Island, where the community spirit mirrors her roots. Her background as a children’s specialist at Books-A-Million and her work at a hospital have equipped her with valuable insights into the challenges children often face. Robin believes that mental health is a vital aspect of overall well-being, and she is deeply committed to fostering a positive environment where young people feel valued, understood, and empowered to express themselves.
In her free time, Robin treasures the moments spent with her husband and daughter. They enjoy discovering the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest, often embarking on family hikes. Cozy movie nights at the Blue Fox are a family favorite, and Robin also finds joy in diving into a good book or trying out new baking recipes with her daughter
Kanza McCauley (she/her) - Executive Assistant/Customer Relations
Kanza McCauley is a Community Health Worker who oversees our DINO program. Kanza was born and raised in the heart of Oklahoma, before she enlisted in the United States Navy at seventeen-years-old, serving for over five (5) years as an Aviation Electrician. The Navy gave Kanza the opportunity to see Chicago, Florida, Maryland, Virginia, Japan, Guam, Singapore, South Korea, Australia, the Philippines, and Hong Kong before she was honorably discharged to receive a higher education.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration – Human Resources in New York City, New York. Recently, Kanza embraced a new adventure, relocating to Whidbey Island in June 2023. Here, she loves the stark contrasts from “the Big Apple”, including the slower-paced island life, vegetation, and mild climate! During her free time, Kanza enjoys lattes with fun swirls, hiking, camping, picnics, stargazing, and traveling to new places!
She is so excited to join BBBSIC’s team and immerse herself in this community. Every interaction with a young person is an opportunity to be the mentor she never had, to offer support, encouragement, and guidance. She believes that by investing in the next generation, we’re investing in the future of our world. Working with youth isn’t just a job; it’s a privilege and a responsibility she embraces wholeheartedly!
Preston Merritt (he/him) - Match Coordinator
Preston Merritt is the Customer Relations Specialist and have been with the agency since August of 2022. He is very excited about being able to join the amazing team here in Island County!
Preston was originally born overseas in England, but spent most of his childhood and adult life in Washington State. He and his wife, Christina, relocated from the Lakewood, WA area to Oak Harbor, WA in July 2022. Prior to moving to the area, he worked in the IT department in a retail environment for seven years. He has managed multiple retail stores as well, one in Lakewood followed by one in Federal Way. Before moving into the private retail sector, he had experience working in the public sector, specifically with the courts system as a Superior court clerk, clerking for drug court as well as family law court.
“I am so happy to have joined the BBBSIC team. I am passionate about ensuring that all the youth of our community have opportunities to discover their potential. I am also dedicated to removing any barriers to those opportunities whether they be social or economical in nature and see that the BBBSIC team has that same dedication,” Preston states.
In his free time, Preston enjoys getting away to new locations with his wife. He loves spending a weekend finding somewhere they have never been and discovering all the hidden gems waiting. He also really enjoys spending time in bookstores and libraries, and reading as much as he can.
Hope McCormack (she/her) - Festival of Trees Fund Development Coordinator
Meet Hope McCormack, BBBS of Island County's Festival of Trees Fund Development Coordinator!
With her exceptional planning skills, dedication, and a talent for securing sponsorships, she plays a vital role in making this beloved event possible.
Her passion for BBBS of Island County's mission shines through every detail, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
If you'd like to volunteer or become a sponsor for this year's Festival of Trees, don't hesitate to reach out to her email at fundbbbsic@gmail.com
Fern (they/them) - Emotional Support Mascot
Fern joined the BBBSIC team in April of 2022 as the official agency mascot and emotional support dinosaur. They are passionate about LGBTQ+ issues and making sure that Island County youth have a safe space to realize their potential. Fern enjoys helping out around the office, hide-and-seek, and big hugs! When not at the office, Fern can sometimes be found visiting their best friend Daisy the Dragon at the Oak Harbor Library.
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