May 09, 2013
Why do you volunteer with Partners Mentoring Youth? I actually had a friend suggest that I volunteer with Partners Mentoring Youth. When I looked into the program further, I was so excited to find out about the School Based Mentoring program (SBM). With School Based Mentoring, you commit to an hour a week with your partner during school hours. Being a mother of a young child, this option sounded amazing to me. I knew that I could make a difference in our community without taking time away from my family.
Describe your volunteer role as a Senior Partner. I love volunteering through Partners Mentoring Youth. When I initially started the program, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Would my partner want to meet with me every week? What would they expect from me? What would we talk about? Any anxiety that I may have had was eased after meeting with Lara Reid, the SBM Program Coordinator. We chatted for about an hour and half about my upbringing, my interests, and the age group I was interested in partnering with. She then matched me with a partner who was a great fit. We meet every week, and never run out of things to talk (and laugh) about.
What motivates you to volunteer/enjoy most? There is motivation all around me! Working for OtterBox and having this great base of resources and encouragement to volunteer is phenomenal. The biggest motivation though, is my partner. She is really coming into her own, and I am so excited to watch her graduate next year.
What is your fondest memory of volunteering? We always have a great time, and we keep it really simple. My best memory would probably be when she made fun of my driving. (I tend to start talking and forget where I am going). I could tell that she trusted me and felt comfortable being herself around me.
Do you have any advice for those who are interested in volunteering with Partners Mentoring Youth? There are so many kids in our community who are waiting to be matched with a mentor. If you are considering it, don’t wait! Contact Partners and they will talk you through the different types of partnerships that are available. I knew that I wanted to mentor a teenage girl at Rocky Mountain High School and Partners was able to find a great match. Now we have formed a lasting friendship, which is so rewarding.