2025 Michael Robideaux Hero Award
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is honored to recognize Jo Krasch as the recipient of the 2025 Michael Robideaux Hero Award. This honor celebrates a mentor whose remarkable courage, selflessness, and unwavering commitment have made a lasting impact on the lives of local youth.
Jo has been a Big Sister to Alishia for more than five and a half years, offering steady encouragement through seasons of growth and important milestones. During a particularly challenging year for Alishia's family, Jo remained a constant and compassionate presence, teaching valuable life skills like cooking and driving, and helping Alishia build confidence for the road ahead.
Their time together has been filled with creativity and purpose. Whether painting, making jewelry, or completing the impressive project of building bunk beds for Alishia's younger siblings, Jo has encouraged hands-on learning and self-expression. The pair also takes part in our Big Futures program, attending workshops that help Alishia build confidence and plan for a successful future. Along the way, they've made lasting memories by cheering on the Pensacola Blue Wahoos baseball team, enjoying local events, and simply sharing moments of joy and connection. Beyond mentoring, Jo went a step further by coordinating a generous financial contribution from her employer to support Big Brothers Big Sisters, reflecting her wholehearted commitment to our mission and to building a stronger future for local youth.
It's this same spirit of selflessness and dedication that defines the Michael Robideaux Hero Award. It was established in memory of Michael Robideaux, a devoted Big Brother who was matched with his Little Brother Deontrez for over three years. On March 25, 2018, Michael tragically lost his life while heroically rescuing two children from dangerous surf at Navarre Beach. His legacy of service and compassion lives on through this tribute. This year, that legacy continues through Jo Krasch.
"Jo, your unwavering support, your consistency, your creativity, and your servant heart have not gone unnoticed," said Christy Myers, Match Specialist for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida. "You are the very definition of what it means to be a Big-and even more, what it means to be a hero in a young person's life."
To honor Jo's incredible impact, we worked with the pastor of Olive Baptist Church to surprise her with the award during her choir practice. Jo was completely surprised and emotional as she accepted the recognition surrounded by her church family. On behalf of our board and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude to Jo for her steadfast dedication to empowering youth and for equipping Alishia with the tools needed to reach her full potential.