Guest Column
by KAREN MCNICHOLL
I often hear people say that they would like to volunteer or help out with volunteer service. Finding a project can sometimes be time consuming. Four years ago I embarked on a volunteer project that has only gotten better with time in volunteering as a school mentor. The mentoring program within the Hays school system provides a much needed service to many of our great kids. I was hooked up with a first grader who just needed to know that someone was willing to spend 30 minutes with him and listen to his frustrations, learn about his friends and activities and celebrate in his acheivements. In other words, someone who serves as his friend, advocate and buddy. This year we celebrate 4 years of great friendship. And he is still astounded that I take the time to hang out with him. What this fantastic kid doesn’t realize is what he has done for me.
There was a shortage of mentors three years ago so I added another child into my schedule. And again, I was blessed with another incredible kid. It is a privledge for ME to spend time with them. They think it’s the other way around. My life has become so incredibly richer and more meaningful since they became my friends. Who knew that the second child could give me some of the best and sound advice I have ever received? Life can be so incredibly cruel and harsh. And kids shouldn’t have to deal with some of the stuff they are thrown. I am amazed at the stamina, strength and positive attitudes my fellas show on a daily basis. The other plus to this gig is I share meanigful and warm relationships with their parents. It feels good to hear from them how much benefit their boys have gotten out of the mentoring program. And to also know that if a roadblock comes up, that I can be called upon to find out what the issues are and we can move forward with a possible solution. The trust is so important and with it comes respect from all sides.
Who can mentor? Practically anyone! Parents, grandparents, college students, professionals, non parents, unemployed. A criminal background clearance and short training session are all that stands between you and a great relationship with a child. If you only have 30 minutes to spare for your lunch break then you too have time. And yes, eating with the child is also a great experience.
It takes so little to make such huge differences in the life of a child who needs to know that they matter. The mentoring program at HCISD is one of the best programs they offer, and it is free of charge. It costs them no extra expense for those who count the pennies of our schools.
We can improve our schools one child at a time and this program works. Michelle Winn, school counselor at Negley Elementary can lead you to the campus contact you wish to serve. My hope is that every child who needs a mentor will have one to help them become the person they are meant to be.
