I want to encourage Albert Lea and Freeborn County community members to support the Community Mentoring Connection and STARS — Freeborn County’s version of Big Brothers/Big Sisters programs. These programs do not receive public funding or United Way dollars.

These programs are a valuable resource in need of your energy and financial support. During these challenging economic times, more and more children need a caring adult, offering opportunities to them that they otherwise might not get. Here is an opportunity for you to be an example and show a child how “to do the right thing.” Evidence shows that a relationship with a caring adult is a huge deterrent to dropping out of school, avoiding juvenile delinquency, and helps children develop a caring and sharing attitude.

I am a grandma, I am employed full-time, and I am busy. But each week, for a couple of hours, I get to mentor a 7-year-old boy who I have been matched with through the CMC. These are some of the most enjoyable hours of my week and a great investment in the future. There is no other place where your hours or dollars could do more.

If you would like more information about these programs, would like to become a mentor, or make a donation, please contact Carolyn Smith, mentor program coordinator, at (877) 232-8399 or starsforkids@yahoo.com.

Pamela Watson

Albert Lea