Salisbury, MD — The Salisbury Area Chamber of Commerce (SACC) proudly launched its first Business After Hours event of the year at the Greater Salisbury Committee, hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Eastern Shore (BBBSES). Members and guests gathered for an evening filled with networking, meaningful conversation, and an inspiring look into National Mentoring Month and the organization’s mission of creating life‑changing mentorships for local youth.
Attendees learned how BBBSES matches volunteer mentors, known as “Bigs,” with children ages 6–18, “Littles,” across the region. Executive Director Jessica Simms expressed her gratitude to the community, sharing, “We are grateful for everyone who came out tonight. Thank you to the Chamber for co‑hosting this event and thank you to our board and all of our supporters.”
This year marks several major milestones for the organization. Big Brothers Big Sisters has served the Salisbury area for more than 40 years, and 2026 is especially significant as the Eastern Shore affiliate celebrates its 10‑year anniversary. Because the organization is an independent affiliate, it allows all funds raised across the nine counties of Maryland’s Eastern Shore to remain in those communities. This independence enables BBBSES to tailor its programs to the unique needs of the rural areas it serves.
Guests were moved by a heartfelt testimonial from Chamber member Karen Cooper, who shared the personal impact of mentorship. The evening also featured delicious bites from Chamber members including MoJo’s and Brew River Restaurant and Bar, along with a variety of door prizes—highlighted by a two‑night cabin stay for up to 10 people at Salisbury Camping and Adventure. A 50/50 raffle supported the SACC Foundation Endowment Initiatives, which provides scholarships for Lower Shore students.
Community members interested in becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister can learn more at https://shorebiglittle.org.
The Chamber invites everyone to mark your calendars for the next Business After Hours to be held on February 12, 5–7 PM at Habitat for Humanity of Wicomico County.
