Discover Desoto: Building a Stronger Desoto County Through Mentorship and Momentum With Crystal Walter

Editor's Note: Join us on January 13, 2026, from 4:00 to 8:00 PM at the Turner Agri-Civic Center in Arcadia for the DeSoto Community Update. Building on last year's success, this gathering features an expanded resource fair, updates from community partners, and opportunities to connect over dinner. Together, we will celebrate progress and inspire action toward lasting change. Click here to RSVP.

In the latest episode of Discover DeSoto, host Alicia Exantus sits down with Regional Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast, Crystal Walter, to explore her aspirations for DeSoto County and how her organization’s mentorship programs are empowering local youth.

Crystal shares how building strong relationships, nurturing trust, and investing in young people are central to creating a community where everyone can thrive. The conversation dives into how initiatives like DeSoto County Ahead connect residents, nonprofits, and leaders, ensuring that every story, every effort, and every act of kindness contributes to a shared vision for the county’s future.

As Alicia and Crystal reflect on the progress already made and the dreams still ahead, listeners are reminded that change begins with connection.

Timestamps

• 00:50 - Introduction to Crystal, Regional Program Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Sun Coast.
• 01:25 - Crystal shares what it is like living in DeSoto County and what she loves about it.
• 03:30 - Crystal goes into detail about Big Brothers Big Sisters and what the organization offers to the community.
• 07:00 - Crystal points out what is unique about Big Brothers Big Sisters in DeSoto County.
• 8:35 - Crystal goes into detail about how to become a Big in her program.
• 11:30 - Crystal shares her perspective of the community conversations that have taken place both as a participant and as a facilitator.
• 8:35 - Crystal goes into detail about how to become a Big in her program.
• 17:26 - Crystal shares her small wins from being an exhibitor at the Desoto County Ahead event.
• 20:25 - Crystal wraps up this episode by sharing her Discover Desoto Gem.

• Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast
• Community Champions Spotlight: Crystal Walter Big Brothers, Big Sisters 
• Blog: Discover Desoto: Building a Stronger Desoto County Through Mentorship and Momentum With Crystal Walter

Connect Beyond The Blog

• Crystal Walter on LinkedIn
• Alicia Exantus on LinkedIn

Want to hear more? Follow us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or visit us Beyond The Blog!

• Beyond the Blog, DeSoto County Ahead
• 
  SHARE THIS POST: