Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is honored to recognize Gregg Pachkowski as the recipient of the 2026 Michael Robidoux Hero Award. This honor celebrates a mentor whose compassion, selflessness, and unwavering dedication have made a lasting impact on the lives of local youth.
Gregg first became involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida in 2021 when he began mentoring his Little Brother Demarcus, making a lasting impact through his guidance and support. Continuing his commitment to mentorship, Gregg began mentoring his current Little Brother Zaylen, in February 2025. Since then, Gregg has consistently demonstrated dedication, patience, and intentionality in their relationship. Whether attending a Mardi Gras parade, skating, seeing “Elf: The Musical,” going to the movies, sharing meals, spending time at the beach, or simply enjoying outings together, Gregg has created a safe and supportive space where trust and connection continue to grow.
What stands out most about Gregg’s mentorship with Zaylen is his patience and perseverance. Over time, he has remained steady and intentional in building connection, often taking the lead in initiating conversations. As their relationship has grown, Gregg has begun to notice small but meaningful signs of progress in Zaylen that reflect growing trust. Zaylen has begun sharing more about himself, opening up about family experiences, telling stories about his life, and even feeling comfortable enough to dance along to music in the car. Recently, he has also started initiating conversations and sharing more about what is happening in his life, reflecting an increasing sense of comfort in the relationship.
One especially meaningful moment came when Zaylen shared that he had previously felt unsafe in his neighborhood following a shooting nearby. Gregg recognized the significance of that level of vulnerability and responded with compassion and care, continuing to provide a stable and supportive presence.
Gregg’s servant heart extends beyond his role as a mentor. As a photographer for the Pensacola News Journal, Gregg generously volunteered his time and talents to capture photos at our largest fundraising event of the year, the 2025 Big Gala. His photography helped preserve meaningful moments from the evening and further demonstrated his dedication to supporting the agency’s mission.
On June 24, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida partnered with the Pensacola News Journal to surprise Gregg with the award at his workplace. Believing he was attending a routine staff meeting, Gregg arrived to find his coworkers and Big Brothers Big Sisters staff waiting to celebrate him. The office was decorated with a superhero theme, symbolizing the extraordinary impact Gregg has made through his selfless service, generous heart, and unwavering commitment to mentoring local youth.
It is this same spirit of selflessness and dedication that defines the Michael Robidoux Hero Award. The award was established in memory of Michael Robidoux, 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 continues to inspire mentors who give selflessly to young people in their communities.
On behalf of our board and staff, we extend our deepest gratitude to Gregg Pachkowski for his continued dedication to empowering youth and for showing up with care, authenticity, and heart. Please join us in congratulating Gregg Pachkowski, recipient of the 2026 Michael Robidoux Hero Award.
