The Mentoring Network Inc.

When i visit my mentee, the exchange of love and connection fills my soul and and my life

Seven years ago, I met Donna Shines and heard about her Mentoring Network through my Kiwanis Club. I was quite impressed and became a mentor to a young lady in the school where I worked. When she moved up to the high school, she decided she didn't want a mentor so I was assigned another young lady. We have been together for 5 years now and really enjoy our time.

We get together each week for a "lunch date" where we talk and play cards and simply hang out together. I have been to some of her class presentations now that she's in high school and I send her post cards from the places I visit during summer vacation. I'm hoping that I am helping to make her life a bit more fun. At least she knows I'm here if she needs me.

I cannot recommend the Mentoring Network highly enough! What Donna and her crew have accomplished is amazing. I am trying to talk my friends and family (especially those who are retired) into giving an hour a week to such a worthy cause!

I have loved being a mentor for this nonprofit! One hour a week makes a difference in these kid’s lives!

I was mentored from my 3rd grade year to my 7th grade year by three amazing ladies who were very generous with their time and efforts to help me as a young kid get through a tough situation.

I have been with the mentoring network since second grade I've had the same mentor all these years. I'm a junior in high school and I recently move but my mentor still comes and gets me on Wednesday and we go get coffee/water and talk. The mentoring network has been great for me. I am glad I have the mentor I do because when I need advice she has it, and if my family is going through a rough time she helps us through it. I see how many kids just like me have been helped by the mentoring network and it's amazing. Through the activities we all participate in I have met so many great people. Without this network that wouldn't have happened. When I graduate and get my life together I would very much like to be a mentor to a young kid just like me. I wanna make a difference in the world and this group has made a huge difference

As a mentor in the mentoring network and an employee of one of the school districts The Mentoring Network services, I am able to see first hand the impact these mentors have on our highest risked population of students. I am proud to support and be a part of such an amazing organization that truly puts kids first. The relationships that are formed create such a positive experience for these students and their families. Not only do these students find stability, confidence and love but their mentors find themselves gaining these same qualities! I am a proud supporter of these programs and will continue to advocate and recruit mentors to provide positive and loving experiences for our kiddos!

I'm a 8-10 year mentor. In my years I have mentored several kids. One of these kids has graduated from high school. One of my kids is in 6th grade. I met him in 1st grade. For the 5 years I've been working on friendship, responsibility, and etc. Last year he saw a fellow student crying and he asked if he could help. That is why I volunteer, to be a positive influence on our young people.

I am a mentee with the mentoring network. This nonprofit organization has helped not only me but many other kids and students. They help us succeed in school, help us with any problems we have, and most of all, they encourage us to do our absolute best in everything from school work to jobs. They encourage us to find what makes us happy and they help us build on it. Not only are they helping but they are changing lives.

Frederick Douglass is credited with saying “It is easier to build strong children than repair broken men.”
As a mentor with The Mentoring Network “building” is exactly how I see my role.
My once a week meetings with my mentee are opportunities to build hope, confidence, peace, focus. and optimism in his world.
Best of all we have a great time together!
I learn and grow, too!
Being a Mentor is a joy and The Mentoring Network is a wonderful organization.

I have seen first hand the difference this organization and the mentors make in the life of a child. The Mentoring Network truly makes an impact on each child that they work with creating great hope for the future.

I discovered the Mentoring Network through a teacher friend. I was recently retired and looking for an opportunity to volunteer. I met Donna, the administrator and was so impressed with her knowledge and enthusiastic spirit. I was in! Then I met my first mentee and we hit it off right away. I now have a second mentee as well and am happy to say we get along great too. Having the opportunity to have a positive impact on a child's life makes us both feel worthwhile and hopeful for what the future has in store. Also, I can't forget Gretta MN's admin. assistant. Her organization and communication skills keep MN running smoothly and effectively. She too cares so much about the mentees and it shows!

Where to start about the Mentoring Network? I had a teacher approach me while volunteering at and elementary school with the idea of being a mentor. Being newly retired I wasn't sure I wanted to take on the commitment. When my husband and I met Donna Shines (the administrator) we knew we wanted to be a part of this group of volunteers. Donna's enthusiasm, knowledge and caring about children is way over the moon. The emphasis of having someone to be constant in a child's life is so important to us and her. We have thoroughly enjoyed making a connection with the students we work with. My girl that I have worked with changed schools and moved to another town. When I reunited with her at her new school her first question was "how did you find me? I didn't think I would ever see you again." That's what tells me this program really does work. I am 68 years old and feel like I have made a friend for life with my girl (4th grade). Hopefully, I will get to follow her clear through high school.
Gretta (administrative assistant) ranks at the top of efficiency. She knows all the volunteers, best people to make contacts with and the students. She returns emails promptly which is so helpful. Everyone at the Mentoring Network deserves so much recognition for seeing the need for this type of program and their follow through. I could go on and on but I think you get the idea.

Every community needs a network to leverage their greatest resource for the purpose of investing in those with the greatest need. The greatest resource is people committed to investing in children with the greatest needs—and that is exactly what The Mentoring Network Inc. does for the Treasure Valley. I've had the privilege of hearing children express gratitude to their mentors who've cultivated healthy, encouraging relationships for up to ten years, and it has inspired me to serve as well. I highly recommend supporting this effort. They have the track record, the respect of the community, and their work changes lives and communities for the better.

The Mentoring Network has provided students at my school, who are at risk for non attendance, poor grades and ultimately dropping out, with adult mentors who visit the student weekly and follow them from grade to grade. The adult mentorship has been life changing for my students. They know that there is an adult who is there only for them. A mentor who will not just listen to them, but will also hold them accountable to goals that they set together. Someone who celebrates with them, advocates for them and ultimately helps them reach the potential that they all are capable of reaching.

I LOVE to be a part of the Mentoring Network! Donna Shines and Gretchen are terrific leaders and assist new mentors through the process thoroughly and thoughtfully.

It is a gift to be involved in the life of a young person in my community although I'm certain I receive much more than I give!

This is a TERRIFIC nonprofit who serves so well and so efficiently!

I have been involved with The Mentoring Network for less than a year, but am already completely convinced of its importance to our community! I am loving being a mentor, and only wish that I could mentor more kids! In a few short months it is very apparent that an hour a week can indeed make a big difference in the life of a child.
This organization seems to be very well run, with such beautiful heart for its mission. I plan to become even more involved, ready to be of use in whatever way makes sense.

I have been involved with the mentoring network since the early 2000's. This program has made such a big difference in so many individual lives. Thank you to every Mentor out in our community that spends their time with this program.

I have been working with the Mentoring Network for over 10 years as an attorney advisor and can't say enough great things about this organization. I hear nothing but great, heart-melting stories about the connections made between mentors and mentees. The passion of the board and its executive director, Donna Shines, shows in everything they do.

This network has done wonders for the community it works in. All about building relationships and bringing back the communication lost by technology. I myself have been a menti for this network since I was in thrid grade, now graduated. Its has had a huge impact on my life and the way I move forward.

I was very sick and in the Hospital for 8 weeks. A person does a lot of thinking when you have nothing but time to heal. My best friend Michele took me to a meeting and told me I needed to do this Mentoring thing, I went and listened. I am a shy person when it comes to these kinds of things. I went home talked to my Husband and I slept on it and for some reason. So I called Donna and 14 yrs. later I'm still here trying to Help the Kids . I do not have any of my own kids so I wasn't sure on how I could help . I am going on how I was raised. The old fashion way. I will keep mentoring as long as I am able to. Please help the kids who need this program .

I have gained so much more from my association with The Mentoring Network and my dear little mentee than I could ever had expected or believed. The joy with which she greets me each week is delightful. We talk about so many things. It makes my life so fulfilled. You should try it!

The Mentoring Network first came to my attention approximately 16 years ago when I was teaching 3rd grade. There was a young man in my classroom who was in need of a strong male role model. The Mentoring Network paired him up with Ray Bennett, a mentor who stood by this young man into adulthood. I truly believe that the connection with a loving adult who truly cared has helped this young man to become a productive citizen. Ray has passed on now, but I know that the impact he had was lasting as I am still in contact with this young man.

This is just one of many stories I could share about the impact of mentors for the students in my classes and my school. For the past five years, I have been the administrator of the at the same school where I taught. Donna Shines and The Mentoring Network are the first place I turn when I see a student who just needs a positive adult role model in their lives.

I spent 41 years in the nonprofit world, the last 32 as the CEO for two YMCA's. I have known Donna Shines for 40 years. Over those years I have seen and worked with many nonprofits and lots of leaders of nonprofits. The Mentoring Network and Donna Shines are the best of the best. The Mentoring Network has managed to avoid the bureaucracy that seems to creep into many organizations as they grow. This allows all of the energy to go into connecting adult role model with kids who need another caring adult in their lives. I currently work at the College of Idaho and have several student volunteering with the Mentoring Network. While this is clearly great for the children they mentor, it is equally good for these college students. They love their kids and share great stories with me. They also know and love Donna. Often CEO's are far removed from the action. Not Donna; she finds time to get to know and mentor each one of her volunteers too. She also does so much great work in the community and is a sought after speaker and an important and value adding member of any team working to improve the community for all. Donna is as beloved a leader as anyone I know. She has people she worked with 4 decades ago that she has stayed in touch with and who would call her their best life coach ever.
The Mentoring Network does very important work and they do it as well and efficiently as any organization I know. Donna is a community treasure.

I am a newbie to this wonderful program since joining for the first time this fall. Having been a classroom teacher for 33 + years I appreciate very much the value of such a program Many of our children are products of dysfunctional families and have no stable caring adult in their life . Presently I am a mentor for a 4th grade boy who has experienced a number of losses in his young life. He was depressed and below grade level. An elderly couple mentored him last year and because of their love and care little Johnny made substantial progress. Due to circumstances beyond their control they had to move out of state. I took their place. Little Johnny is up to grade level and is a delightful young man. He communicates well with me and in the 5-6 times we have had together I find him quite creative with a good imagination. He looks forward to our times together and is disappointed when the school schedule interferes with that time. I look forward to each Thurs. afternoon and come away feeling that that hour was well spent.
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I have been a mentor for just under a year. However, I have worked with Donna as a school counselor for several years previous to that. I have nothing but positive things to say for this organization. I just wish we could get more mentors to meet the needs of so many students that could use them. As a counselor, I would sometimes hear parents or teachers say that students misbehaved because they were just trying to get attention. I would think they were probably right and so wish that there were someone who could answer their need for attention. As a counselor with all the responsibilities of a school with over 600 students, the mentoring just didn't happen. This organization sets up all the logistics to make the good things happen.

I have had the opportunity to be a volunteer with The Mentoring Network over the past several years and have seen the amazing work that is being done through this program. The mentors and mentees have such an amazing bond and it is obvious that each one plays an important role in the other ones life.

I have been with the Mentoring Network for 12 years now. I have had the pleasure of mentoring 3 young men. I have enjoyed seeing them grow. It's fun to listen to them and learn to trust you so they can share their experiences, hopes, fears, and the future. I have also experienced several summer camps over the years. One of the most rewarding experience was on a challenge course. Seeing the fear they are experiencing , but then watching as they overcome this fear and complete the course.

Also , the leadership at the Mentoring Network is extremely dedicated to the mission of the Network.

I have been a mentor for almost 2 years now, I have a young girl who was very angry and distant. I am so thrilled to see how she has come so far. I went to see her last week and it was wonderful to see her surrounded by friends and laughing and smiling. I know she can have a very bright path with the right choices and I want to help her understand this. Thanks you Donna for this amazing connection.

I have been a mentor for the Mentoring Network for the past 4 years. The leadership at the Mentoring Network is dedicated to improving the lives of the at-risk children in our communities. As I have shown up each week to bring encouragement and love to my kids that I mentor, I have personally seen the changes in their lives. I am very thankful for the opportunity to mentor that is provided by the Mentoring Network.

I have worked closely with the Mentoring Network and Donna Shines. I cannot speak highly enough of the amazing work that is taking place within our community. It is because of people taking time to mentor that we will begin to see less kids drop-out of school, participate in illegal activities. The kids will know their self-worth and understand they are loved beyond measure. So happy to have the Mentoring Network in our community!

The Mentoring Network is the epitome of goodness in Idaho! Bringing caring adults to children in need to give them an opportunity for a positive connection with an adult is something that every child needs. Donna Shines, the MN Board Members and all Volunteers do great things for Idaho!
Toni Brinegar

I have enjoyed working as a mentor and the experience has been Maude positive through the organization and help of Donna and Gretta

It's been a great pleasure volunteering as a mentor to a beautiful girl name DeAjah during school hours, I have learned a lot about teenagers and has become fond of her and that led to me working on a part time basis at the department of health and wealth farewell with troubled girls which I love doing and help the girls over come their difficulties in life and continue their schooling.

I began volunteering with the Mentoring Network six years ago in the fall of 2009 and continue to do so now. My first mentee was in third grade when we began meeting and he is now a sophomore high school. We continue to meet and discuss whatever he chooses --
mostly interactions at school and what's going on in our local area. In addition I met with
with a middle school girl for two years. Presently I also meet with a 4th grade boy . Each of
these children have shown me how important it is for them to have someone to share with and talk to ... a person who listens carefully to whatever they are trying to express, one who plays with them and helps them learn more about interacting fairly with classmates, etc. etc. The reward that I get from helping these children is watching them grow in so many positive ways. The Mentoring Network is truly a caring and compassionate organization that is making a difference in the life of the children it serves. And for the Mentors who help!

I have had numerous positive experiences with the Mentoring Network and its employees. They do an excellent job of training mentors, keeping mentors motivated, and communicating with the schools. Its is fun watching students flourish emotionally, academically, and socially because of the strong bond they share with a mentor. I look forward to continue working with the Mentoring Network in my school.

Volunteering to make a difference in a child's life is an amazing experience. I've met a friend for life.

I have been involved with Mentoring Network since 2002. In that time, I have had 5 mentees. It was a little disconcerting to have a parent pull a student from the program with no explanation, but, that's what happened. I've enjoyed each student, and have been with the current one 4 years. She's reaching the teenage life, and sometimes I wonder if and how I'm helping her, but then say to myself, just relax, be a friend, play another game of Rummy. That seems to be what she wants/needs. The program has helped me, too, getting me going on days I'd just as soon not go, but once I do, I find it worth it. I have enjoyed the day camps, and can see so many of the kids grow, so I have seen other kids' progress, not just my own. The staff is tremendous, and although the volume of mentors/mentees has grown so much, care is taken to get to know each of us, so we each feel special. This community would be so much poorer in soul without the MN. The sponsors seem to be as interested and involved as those of us with our weekly sessions. The schools have been more than willing to work with my schedule so I can spend time with my special kid. I can only think positively about everyone involved, and am glad I'm in the network.

Like a lot of these kids, i did not have the greatest childhood growing up. I have always wanted to help children and thought this is a great way to do that. When I first met "Matt Man" we had a lot in common. During the 2 years I have mentored Matt we have become good friends, and have helped Matt get through some tough times. Matt will now visit me a the Police station just to say hi. Getting involved in The Mentoring Network was the best thing for me, it has allowed myself, and Matt to grow. Being able to spend an hour a week with Matt just hanging out, or being able to help him through his struggles is something i looked forward too each week. Thanks Mentoring Network for allowing me to do this!

As an elementary principal I had the pleasure of seeing what a positive impact mentoring can have for our most at risk children. The Mentoring Network finds and trains amazing mentors. These mentors are committed to making a difference in the life of a child. It is a compassionate and caring non profit that gets visible results. These caring adults follow our transient students as they move through the valley to different elementary schools and really show they are committed to supporting kids.

The Mentoring Network honors and catalyzes the power of relationships. This is a high-impact, low-resource, replicatable and proven model that offers a life-changing-positive-impact way of being together for both the mentor and mentee. The ripple effect of what The Mentoring Network makes possible is felt throughout the community. What will it take for every community member to feel valued, seen, heard and a deep sense of belonging? The Mentoring Network strives to achieve that vision through deep community engagement as a way of being together, not something we do as an activity.

My wife and I are financial supporters of the nonprofit The Mentoring Network Inc. This organization has done a remarkable service to our area by organizing volunteer mentors to spend an hour or so each week with a student from one of several local rural school districts. The students are referred by the school counselors because of a variety of social and academic needs.
The program has been very successful at furnishing the student with an interested friend to help the student keep an interest in school and relationships. The graduation rate of the mentored students is very high and the need for legal interaction is very rare in this group.
The program is run with minimal staff but with great success. This is money well spent!

I have been a volunteer with the Mentoring Network since February of 2014 and have a great relationship with a young man that is in 6th grade this year. You never have any idea how you might influence someone with just a little bit of your time. I was amazed when I got a report from this young man's teachers, school counselor, and principal of his improvements in grades, behavior, and overall attitude in a very short period of time. I did nothing but listened and became his trusting friend. I am humbled and grateful for this experience. What an opportunity to reach out and touch a life. These kids need all of our help. One hour a week is so insignificant to the positive impact you can have on them. The Mentoring Network is a huge difference maker.

The Mentoring Network is a non-profit organization that is more than just a place to feel good because you helped someone. The children that get matched with Mentors, don't just gain another adult in their life. They receive a friend who is committed to giving them a listening ear and a person to cheer them on with their dreams. I train, work and assist Mentor's within my program and those who help with the Mentoring Network have impressed me. I am very thankful for the help they bring daily to the children in our area and how much they continue to strive for what is possible no matter what roadblocks may seem to exist. Truly a class-A group and non-profit.

I am the school counselor at an elementary school with many students who might be categorized as "at-risk." The Mentors that my students receive through the Mentor Network spend their own time to make sure that my students feel special. I can't say enough how the Mentors have impacted the students. I love seeing the difference after a new match is made, the student truly blossoms. It is amazing what an hour of one-on-one time a week can really do to brighten a child's life.

As a counselor at a small school with a large percentage of low income families, I can easily say that the Mentoring Network is an invaluable resource for us. The mentors who come to us trained by the Mentoring Network are committed, reliable, loving and so generous toward our students. They spend countless personal hours and significant financial resources to simply show our kids that they are cared about. I have heard adult children who were mentored in the past speak about how their lives were impacted by their mentor. It is very apparent that mentors change lives and those changed lives go on to change others. There are very few individuals as committed to children as those who volunteer for the Mentoring Network. I cannot speak highly enough of this program!

The Mentoring Network worked with one of my at risk students. Our mentor was a great role model, dependable and used her own money to help provide experiences for this student. I highly recommend this group! It was an amazing and positive experience.

I am the principal of a local high school. We have several students who have participated in mentoring through the mentoring network. Mentoring Network is life saving for these students. Frequently, after they leave school these students have no adult role models with whom they can connect. Mentoring Network provides that for them.

The Mentoring Network Inc. is a school-based mentoring program that matches a caring adult with an at-risk kid (identified as such by their counselor or teacher) during the school day and on-site at school. Adults are from all walks of life, background screened, and masterfully matched to their mentees. This program boasts the stellar record of not one of these at-risk kids dropping out of school or becoming involved with law enforcement while participating in the program. Hundreds of lives have benefited over the past decade from the work of The Mentoring Network Inc. As a professional psychotherapist, I see how the therapeutic relationship is powerful. This non-profit at a margin of the cost of professional services accomplishes much to help the community.

This year I had the oppertunity to get involved with the Mentoring Network. I first meet my Friend Johnathon Z with and event called shop with a cop. Later I learned that I would be mentoring Johnathon. Jonathon come from a low income household. Each week I met him at his school to play and talk. I coul;d count on a big smile when I showed up and from there it was non stop talking, sharing stories and playing games. The Mentoring Network has made amazing oppertunies to spend with theses kids that may have little or no role models in their life. I am dedicated to the program and the amazing effort the Mentoring Network puuts in to change the lives of or kids.
Captain Frank Wyant
Caldwell Police Department

The mentoring network absolutely positively has an impact on some of the highest needs students who live in our area. I am a fifth grade teacher and I have watched matches made in 2nd or 3rd grade go into the high school level and beyond. The work of this organization is so effective, because of the long term relationships that vested mentors cultivate with their mentees. I have watched this organization with great interest and can tell multiple stories of how the lives of students have been impacted for the good!

I am a teacher of the year at our school. I have had students' lives changed for the better from chaos to being given a reason to be at school. I also retired a few years back and have taken up mentoring. I have two students I visit with weekly and not only have I seen great kids turn better but I look forward as they do to my weekly meetings. We talk, play games, throw frisby, and eat lunch together. I look forward to a new school year and checking back in with my kids.

I am a principal in an elementary school where several mentors are assigned. We have a number of students with high levels of trauma and chaos in their lives. I have seen an amazing impact when a mentor steps into the life of a student. They meet once a week with the student and provide a positive and stable role model. The mentors are of the highest professional quality and they continue to follow the student, even though the student and their family may bounce from school to school. I know some mentors who have followed their kids all the way up through high school.

Last year one of our students lost their mom. Her mentor, who had only been assigned a couple weeks earlier, stepped in and helped the extended family with the funeral. She even shared from her heart during the service. Wow! These mentors really impact lives.

I am a State Teacher of the Year for Idaho. I have been involved with the Mentoring Network on several levels over the years. This is an amazing organization that runs on a shoestring for what they provide. The love, caring and compassion with which they give themselves to kids is nearly unequaled. Not only are many children the beneficiaries of all they offer, but the mentors that work with the kids have been hand picked as to make sure everyone is given a chance to succeed. The Mentoring Network is one of the unsung heroes as far as organizations that cater to kids. Experiences and lots of TLC are given to help kids build self esteem, character and personal growth, so that they will have the opportunity to live productive lives. Kudos to the Mentoring Network.

Our school has been gifted with mentors from The Mentoring Network.....what amazing opportunities they have given to our students . I have seen so many positive results because of the mentoring and relationships developed over the years. I wish more people would become mentors so we could affect more students!!

I am the principal in a school that is a regular recipient of mentors from the Mentoring Network. The Network was worked with us to help match mentors with students for long term effects and relationships. Most importantly are the positive changes we seen our mentored students. Socially awkward students have started making friends, academics have improved and classroom behaviors have become more appropriate. While we looked for other variables that would have prompted such changes, we continually came back to the addition of a the mentor. I thank you, my teachers thank you and my students thank you.

I have had the privilege of working with the Mentoring Network for more than a decade, and I am so thankful for their impact on my life and the lives of so many of our Community's children. Working with this organization has had dramatic positive impact on graduation rates, truancy rates, crime rates, as well as connected many wonderful youth with caring, kind adults!! We have been so impressed with the positive results of this program, that we now allow our employees to mentor on company time so that they share their time and talents with the children of Caldwell.

I have been involved with the Mentoring Network for nearly six years and it has been a very positive experience for me. Every week I would look forward to my hour with my student. It has been such a joy to watch the personal growth that each of my girls attained! My first girl just needed a boost to her self-esteem and some encouragement. She has moved out of the area and drops by occasionally. Such a beautiful young lady. My second girl has also moved, to Boise so I can no longer work with her. She had a lot of issues with lack of respect for others and by the end of school last year had made an improvement in how she treated others. We worked really hard on ways to show respect. I really miss having her in my life...but look forward to mentoring another child. It has been one of the most gratifying experiences in my life to watch these youngsters grow.

I have had the pleasure to be involved as a mentor with The Mentoring Network for the past 8 years. I am having a great time with my current mentee; she is an outstanding young person. It is not difficult, but does require a commitment of an hr. a week plus some other occasional get-togethers. The most important thing that I do is be a friend to my young lady, but I also encourage excellent school attendance. We talk about life, classes at school, siblings, pets, cooking and goals for her future. Because of my age, I can give her lots of free advice and she listens to me. I think she is fun and keeps me young. Additionally, I support her mother and all that she does for her family and try to help my mentee see how hard she works for her family. This young lady is an excellent role mode to her five younger siblings.
I love the activities the Network provides for the kids and the enthusiasm & professional attitudes the leaders provides for the program. Honestly, I have a great time and would encourage others to get involved.

I have been a volunteer with the Mentoring Network Inc for over 7 yrs. I love it. The professionalism of those involved is excellent and the dedication to the kids is great to see. They are perfect examples of selfless service to the kids at need in the comminity. I love the fact that this program is one that is through the schools in the area and that is the meeting place for the Mentor and Mentee. This is an excellect program.

I have been involved with The Mentoring Network for almost three years. I volunteered to be on their board when I realized what a significant impact that they had on the lives of children, and did so with such a minimal budget. They touch the lives of so many, with so little. I am proud to be associated with them and cannot think of a more deserving non-profit.

I have been a volunteer with The Mentoring Network for over seven years. What a great group of people to be associated with here in SW Idaho! I have now worked with two different students at the elementary school. The support the Mentoring Network offers mentors is excellent and the whole scope of the project is admirable. As school budgets continue to be cut (and proposed tax levies fail), the role of volunteers - especially well-trained & supported ones from the Mentoring Network - is invaluable in the schools. One hour, once a week really does change lives! www.MentoringNetworkID.org

I must start by saying that we are all mentors be it good or bad people look at you and see what you are doing. This program helps me as much as my Kid. I have had my boy for 3 years now. I have been his shoulder when he needed it but more then that I have been able to watch him grow to a man and see the way can problem solve. What a young man he is he has gone from a problem child in school to a student that others look to and teachers like to have in the class. Yes it is for the kids but when you open your heart to them it is for you too. What a program everyone needs to be part of it. I thank Donna and staff for all that they do the kids is worth it. Thanks Lennie

I mentor two little girls, ages seven and ten. It has been a privilege to work with them this past year and see them blossom. My friends tell me how lucky they are to have me in their lives. I tell them it is just the opposite--I am blessed to have them in my life. I'm really looking forward to being with them for years to come, watching them continue to build their confidence. This program is a tremendous opportunity for children, but no less so for the adults who volunteer and work with them. My thanks and my hat is off to those who worked so hard to move this program from idea to reality. It can't have been easy.

I have had the privilege of mentoring three students through the Mentoring Network over the past few years. It has been a very rewarding experience. I truly believe the adult mentors can make such a difference in a young person's life. I was blessed to have adult rolemodels in my formulative years that were such a positive influence in my life. My goal is to do the same for other youth and The Mentoring Network is making it a reality.

The Mentoring Network is a wonderful organization that has made such a difference in our community and schools. I am always sharing with other co-workers and friends how they can get involved was well.

I worked with The Mentoring Network for six years as a school counselor. The Mentoring Network provided us with top-notch mentors who met with several of our students on a consistent, weekly basis. I was always impressed with the quality of the mentors in The Mentoring Network. All of them were highly-regarded, caring individuals who had a soft spot in their hearts for kids. What most impressed me of The Mentoring Network mentors is their consistent caring. I have worked with other mentors before who showed up inconsistently. That was not the case with The Mentoring Network mentors. They showed up every week, regardless of what was going on in their own lives, and they often brought an interesting activity to share with their mentee. I saw mentors and mentees make holiday cards, play board games, and share books together. The activities provided a route for the mentors and mentees to connect. I would often see them laughing and talking together as they worked together. Also, The Mentoring Network mentees would continue their students for years. That sense of continuity and consistency gave my students a feeling a connectedness that they so desperately needed. The Mentoring Network fills a huge need in our community and it is an organization that I trust and respect to always do what's best for kids!

My son Mark is an Asperger Syndrome child, he was so lonely and bullied in grade school, he just never fit in. He was enrolled in the mentoring program in 6th grade and it literally changed his life. His friendship with Donna gave him self-confidence and gave him the introduction to social skills that we as parents were unable to do. Coming from Donna things made more sense to him, he didn't battle her the way he did with us, and accepted her advice as help not criticism. He graduated from High School this year and I am so proud of the young man he has become, I sincerely believe without the mentoring programs guidance and encouragement he wouldn't be where he is today. The program involved him in social functions, fun events, and learning programs that got him out of his comfort zone and into the adventure of the real world with others. We are so grateful for everything the program does for the kids in need in our community!!

I have been mentoring the same student for almost 3 years, and it is such a blessing to watch her grow and mature. The Mentoring Network offers students a chance to have an adult mentor with whom they can develop a meaningful relationship. There are so many great kids already benefiting from this program and in reality every child needs a mentor who they can call a friend.

I have had the pleasure of facilitating a mentoring relationship with students at my school. As a school counselor, I frequently receive information about students' lives and the impact of their circumstances on their academic performance and general well-being. The students at my school who have been in mentoring relationships through The Mentoring Network transform from sullen to smiling. One teacher remarked, "I wish I had 30 of him" (of the mentor) because she was so impressed with the impact on her student and the benefits mentors could provide to her entire class. This mentor proved his dedication by continuing a mentoring relationship through letters when the student moved to another part of the state. The mentors receive an excellent orientation prior to beginning and I am impressed by the organization, opportunities for summer camp, and data from The Network. I have to agree with the teacher quoted above--I wish we had many more mentors available.

The Mentoring Network is a meaningful program which helps kids experience genuine kindness and acceptance.

One hour a week truly does change a childs life! Working with The Mentoring Network the past few years has afforded me the opportunity to hear many, many stories of kids that have been positively impacted through spending time with their adult mentor. This organization is one of the most efficient organizations that I have been a part of. Over 140 current matches with a staff of 1.5. No doubt that a donor's investment goes a long way with this group.

I am a counselor in the Nampa School District, and have seen amazing things come from the Mentoring Network! The mentors that they set up with our students are truely making a difference in these kids lives.

I am in my 3rd year of mentoring the same child. When I was first approached to be a mentor, I said no. Then, when it was explained to me, that the child was very sad because he didn't have a mom, due to her death at my mentee's age 3, I decided to just try it and I have was pleasently surprised. I was able to show up as a mentor every week for an hour my first year. During my 2nd year, we ended up getting a new 2nd home, where I began spending a lot of time. I asked my mentee if he wanted a new Mentor that could show up each week, and he said no, he would take me whenever I could show up. So, I began coming just once a month, which was still very satisfying for both of us. This year, I have been able to see him more often. I look forward to every meeting with my mentee. He is always so excited when he sees me waiting for him in the office, which reminds me that this is good for both of us. We spend time talking and playing games, which is one of his favorite things. When it's good weather, we play outside. Every winter, we make something special for a Christmas gift for his Dad, and he really loves this, as he normally wouldn't have anything to give his Dad for Christmas. My mentee really loves hot chocolate, so each time I see him, I bring him a thermos of hot chocolate, which he enjoys immensly. If I have any homemade treats, I also bring these, which he loves, since he doesn't have a mom to make these goodies for him. When there is a special occasion in his class, I will bring treats for all, and this makes him so happy as he is able to share with his class members. I try to go to his sports events and support him. I love being able to watch the games and I think he likes me coming to watch him. He told me that he had a friend who needed a mentor, because the boy was acting out. He thought that having a mentor would help his friend. This is further confirmation that this is a great program. The mentoring network is awesome and I really think that it helps kids as well as the adults.

An boy with some anger issues, has a constant adult in his life. No matter what he may or may not have done each week, she shows up to be One Of His People. It makes a difference. A girl who struggles with self esteem has an adult that thinks she is wonderful and treats her as such. It makes a difference. A young boy working on making better decisions in his life, has a role model that is firm, but fun. It makes a difference. These are examples of the mentors that come to our school. Our kids are so thankful for the mentors provided by The Mentoring Network and we are, too. South Middle School

I work as an elementary school counselor in the Nampa School District. I have seen mentors from the Mentoring Network change lives and help put kids back on a positive track. Sometimes a student's needs are truly overwhelming, and yet, one person in their lives can and does make a huge difference. That student now has a caring person to help direct them, dialogue with them, and give the valuable feedback for their decision-making and choices, where they may go unchecked before. This one person walking into their lives can help foster a relationship of support and positive rapport that generates encouragement for a child like non other. A student often needs that one person who is not an authority figure, who helps draw the safe and healthy boundaries that lead a student down the road of success. Mentors do all that, and more!! Thanks to the Mentoring Network for helping youth in a big way.

I am a school counselor and have had several kids mentored by your fine people. All of the kids have had a very positive experience. On my end you have been a pleasure to work with also.

I am both a volunteer, a board member, and a donor. I've been mentoring the same girl for the past seven years and to watch her grow in confidence during this time has been a real gift for me. The Mentoring Network provides a safe mentoring opportunity for both volunteers and their mentees in a school-based setting. It's run so efficiently and so effectively, I'm convinced it's the best return on investment for anyone involved in any capacity - as a volunteer, as a donor, or as a friend of the network, you know that your gift is being well utilized to help change the course for a child that so very much needs our help!

I'm a school counselor in the Nampa School District, one of the districts served by the Mentoring Network. I have seen firsthand the significant positive impacts this program has for youth who need, more than anything else, a committed positive adult in their lives. I have many things I can offer to kids: groups, individual work with me, incentive programs, assistance with coping. But for kids in certain circumstances, those things cannot substitute for the committment of another human being who says, with their weekly attendance and consistency, "you are worth my time". Many of these children have never had a person make this kind of promise to them and they've never had someone's undivided attention for a whole hour, simply because someone chooses to give it. I've seen a child's life path altered, for the better, over and over, and unbelievably quickly. Sending a message to a child like, "Simply because I care for you, I will spend my time with you every week. I will be here for you. You will be able to count on me, because I will keep my promise." That changes people in a profound way. Hearts change. Approaches to life change. Belief in others changes. Trust and hope begin to blossom. Solutions are found. Grades improve. Behavior improves. I had one child who could always name at least 3 people whose fault it was that his homework wasn't done, that he'd punched someone, that he'd cursed on the playground, etc. After 3 months of mentoring, his attitude improved and he began to say things like, "I know my grades are low. I didn't turn in my assignments. That's my fault." His whole life will be different because he is now taking responsiblity for his decisions. He will grow to be a different man. The differences seem small at first, but they are huge in terms of life trajectory. Mentoring Network makes these things possible. It is an organization run with great integrity and a heart for changing the world, one child at a time.

As an organizational development expert, I know change happens one individual at a time, and the Mentoring Network changes many lives for the better with its program. I so believe in this program because I can see it making a difference to both mentee and mentor. It is rewarding to have a chance to be a special friend to a young person and it helps kids see the world has people who want them to have good lives. The way the mentoring is set up it builds real connections and genuine concern. I think it is a priviledge to be a mentor.

What a great experience for both me and my mentee! We have been two years together now and I can see a remarkable difference with Abby, our conection, her behavior, and my feelings for her. I am not sure who is learning the most, Abby or myself. I am so glad I got into this program and I urge anyone with an extra hour a week to give, try it it works.

This is my second school year with my mentee, and it has been such an amazing experience for me. The second my mentee and I met, we instantly bonded. Each week he brings a light to my day, and brings me back to reality. I know being a constant in his life has added to his self esteem and school work, but he brings me just as much joy when I get to spend time with him. -Jamie M.

This is my third year as a mentor with The Mentoring Network, Inc. I started with a mentee who was in 7th grade. She is now a freshman in high school. It has been such a positive experience that at the end of last school year, I agreed to mentor another student who is now in 5th grade. There is so much to be learned and experienced by the mentor and mentee. There is conversation, creativity, getting to know a special human being and their getting to know you. In sharing in each other's lives, you experience joy (Joy of Youth). The program is designed in the best interest of each child. I find it to be a very fulfilling way to use my time and would recommend it to any person who has a genuine interest in the well being of children.

I have been a board member of The Mentoring Network since 2010 and it has been nothing but a positive experience. I have met many of our mentors and the kids they work with. The results are incredible. One hour a week can make a difference in someones life. Recently (November 2012) I became a mentor for a young man in one of our school districts. I have met with him only twice but already have a connection with him that hopefully grows into a great friendship. The Mentoring Network is truly a game changer for kids that need that little bit extra in life. I hope to be a board member as long as they let me.

I have been volunteering with The Mentoring Network for two years now. And I absolutely love it. I work with a young man every week for about an hour. We play basketball together and talk about school, family, and life. I care a lot about him, and I am excited to mentor him throughout his school years. I would not have been able to have this relationship if not for The Mentoring Network. They do a very professional and compassionate job of connecting mentors and mentees. And they do an incredible job staying in touch with the students during the summer. Great people who are always helping and looking for others to join them. It has been my pleasure to do so.