Volunteer to be a mentor

When you think back to your youth, was there a mentor who helped you along during tough times — a coach, a teacher, neighbor or other adult friend?
http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20120519/OPINION02/705199979

Published May 19, 2012 in the Rutland Herald Volunteer to be a mentor When you think back to your youth, was there a mentor who helped you along during tough times — a coach, a teacher, neighbor or other adult friend? There are many youth in our community who could use such a caring, trusted person in their lives. Have you ever thought about being such a mentor to a young person? There are many children in your community just waiting to share your interests and hobbies. Do you love the outdoors, hiking, fishing, woodworking, bowling or repairing things? Do you enjoy music, crafts, cooking, sewing, board games, reading or going to museums? You can make a huge difference in the life of a child simply by sharing about two hours a week doing something you already enjoy doing. Research shows that children who have a mentor in their lives are more successful in their personal lives and perform better academically, stay in school and stay away from harmful addictive substances. Windsor County Partners Mentors for Youth has been custom matching junior and senior partners for 38 years and hundreds of youths have benefitted from these supportive relationships. However, the need for mentors has not waned, and our typical waiting list is 20-25 kids, ages 8-14. Kids are referred by guidance counselors, parents or others, and the need for mentors is ongoing for either our PALS program (Partners Always Lend Support), or our Springfield school-based program, LDL (Let’s Do Lunch). If becoming a partner is not something you can do, perhaps you can think of relatives, colleagues or friends who would be interested. Please visit our website, WCPartners.org, or call us at 802-674-5101 for more information, or to discover other ways you could support this worthy organization. MEGAN CULP (Board member, Windsor County Partners) White River Junction