My Nonprofit Reviews

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 have worked with Donna Shines and the Mentoring Network for approximately 15 years. I first became acquainted with this fantastic program as a classroom teacher and, as an administrator, I recognize the valuable service this organization provides for my students. It started with a young man in my classroom who needed a positive male role model in his life. His mentor stayed with him through high school and into the armed services. I am still in regular contact with this young man, and he attributes much of his success to his mentor, Ray. Throughout my career in education, I've witnessed the powerful transformation of many students who have been able to form bonds with mentoring adults. One student who has bounced from foster home to foster home struggled to form relationships. It took his mentor well over a year to convince him she was not going anywhere and no one was paying her to visit him. Having someone that shows up every week just for him, has given him confidence and strength to handle all the difficult situations that are beyond his control. I could share several stories about this wonderful organization that matches at-risk students with caring adults to form life-long friendships which can be the cornerstone of healthy productive lives. I encourage everyone to join with The Mentoring Network in any capacity whether it be financial support or volunteering time. Together we can make a difference in the lives of children.