Column: Guest Column, Carolyn Smith

January is National Mentoring Month, a great time to think about becoming a mentor for a deserving child or teenager. You can make a big difference in a young person’s life by giving just a couple hours of your time, two to four times per month. Listen to what these mentees say about their mentors:

• She brings me places that I would otherwise not go to.

• He is never late and is trustworthy.

• She teaches me new things and we have fun together.

• He is there for me when I need him.

• I can tell her anything. She like really gets me. She thinks my antics are really crazy!

• My mentor rocks!

Mentors also benefit from their time with their mentee. Here’s what they say:

• He’s a great guy, polite and a good sense of humor.

• She is always willing to stand up for what she believes.

• She keeps me young and up-to-date.

• Mentoring is a wonderful way to give back to the community. I really enjoy it.

• He means a lot to me. We will be friends for life.

For more information about becoming a mentor, please contact me at 507-383-5272 or starsforkids@yahoo.com.

 

Alden resident Carolyn Smith is the program coordinator for STARS/Community Mentor Connection.