Zackary Strickley, 16, and Kathy Strickley of West Sacramento attend the Nutcracker at SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. Courtesy photo

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - For the second year, matches from Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Sacramento Area were treated like VIPs at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center to experience the magic of the ‘Nutcracker’. 

The “Littles” and their “Bigs” attended a special reception and ballet together upon the invitation of SAFE Credit Union and Sacramento Ballet. A not-for-profit credit union, SAFE supports nonprofits through grants, volunteerism, direct giving and sponsorships.

Twenty Bigs and Littles and their families enjoyed a reception with treats and gifts before meeting exclusively with Sacramento Ballet Second Company ballet dancer Logan Betts. 

"We know experiencing unique moments like these not only add to our matches’ special bonds but can also impact the trajectory of a young person's life," said Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Sacramento Area President and Chief Executive Officer Jacob Peterson.

Both self-described introverts, Julia Mendoza, 17, of Orangevale went to the reception and ballet with her Big Sister of two years, Inderpreet Chaggar, also of Orangevale. 

Chaggar says the event was a great way for them to “create memories” together while being a part of a crowd.

“Other times when we go out it will just be us two but this, we can share it with other people,” she said. “I feel like this could be really formative for somebody her age.” 

Mendoza described having Chaggar as a Big Sister as being like taking a “big deep breath” when she needs one. “It means a lot to always have someone to talk to.”

Meeting dancer Betts “was cool,” Mendoza added. “It was interesting to hear about her experiences, and I thought her eyes were really pretty,” she said. 

SAFE Credit Union Community Impact Manager Lauren LeBov says SAFE’s hope is that the unique ballet experience “not only brightens their holiday season but also creates memories they’ll cherish for years to come.”

Sacramento Ballet Development Director Thomas McLaughlin said, “We hope access to live dance – especially the magic of the Nutcracker – inspires both Bigs and Littles to see the world with a little more wonder, express themselves, and discover the joy of shared experiences through the arts.”

Other philanthropic initiatives led by SAFE Credit Union include no-cost financial education for everyone from students to retirees, as well as scholarships to college-bound high school seniors and community college students.

In 2019, SAFE Credit Union announced its 25-year, $23 million commitment and investment into Sacramento’s SAFE Credit Union Convention & Performing Arts District. 

About SAFE 

SAFE Credit Union has made members an integral part of its vision since 1940. Over the years the credit union has kept the focus on what really matters, putting members first, a formula that has seen SAFE grow into a leading financial institution in Northern California with $4.4 billion in assets and about 244,000 members. SAFE crafts every cutting-edge product and sterling service with members’ needs foremost in mind. In addition to banking services conveniently available through online, chat, mobile, or phone options, SAFE offers in-person services for members and small businesses at service centers across the Greater Sacramento region. SAFE is a not-for-profit, state-chartered credit union with membership open to businesses and individuals living or working in Sacramento, Placer, Yolo, El Dorado, Sutter, Butte, Nevada, Solano, San Joaquin, Contra Costa, Yuba, Amador, and Alameda counties. Insured by NCUA. Visit www.safecu.org for more information.

About Sacramento Ballet  

Since 1954, Sacramento Ballet has been a beacon of artistic excellence in the California Capital Region, delivering world-class dance performances, education, and community outreach programs. A cornerstone of Sacramento’s cultural community, its mission is to enhance the human condition through dance and to make it accessible to everyone. As the region’s only dance company to maintain a roster of professional dance artists, Sacramento Ballet captivates thousands of patrons each year with its enthralling performances and community outreach events. Unique among local arts organizations, Sacramento Ballet welcomes internationally renowned dancers and choreographers to live and create groundbreaking artistic works right here in our beautiful city and serves as a representative of California’s thriving cultural scene on national and international stages. Sacramento Ballet is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, funded by ticket sales and individual donations, as well as contributions from corporate, foundation, and government entities. This vital support enables the company to present unparalleled, world-class programming that inspires and uplifts, while expanding the reach of the artform through educational and outreach initiatives. 

About Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Sacramento Area  

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Sacramento area operates under the belief that inherent in every child is the ability to succeed and thrive in life, and we work to develop positive relationships that have a direct and lasting effect on the lives of young people. Our one-to-one mentoring program primarily benefits children, ages 7-18, who are being raised by single parents, grandparents or other extended family, and foster families. Our mission is to create and support one-to-one mentoring relationships with trusted adults which ignite the independence and creativity of youth. By partnering with parents/guardians, volunteers, and community members we are accountable for ensuring every child in our program has the opportunity to set high aspirations; gain greater confidence, and experience being involved in healthy relationships; build skills and tools to help avoid risky situations and behaviors; and receive resources and support to reach their educational goals. Visit https://www.bbbs-sac.org/ for more information.