Positive Mentoring Experience by Laura

On February 23, 2007 I matched 7 year-old Deraven with Viola and 7 year-old Donel with Betty at JD Parker Elementary School. Viola and Betty are residents of Ocean Palms Assisted Living Community in Stuart. Transportation was provided by Ocean Palms and Vi and her friend Betty began their weekly trips to the school. In the beginning, Vi was excited and a bit nervous to work with an elementary student. Betty was a little more relaxed due to being a retired school teacher and was eager to learn.

Introductions were made, case plans signed and the matches met each week. During monthly follow-ups, I began to see the positive impact these ladies had on the children. Donel said, “Miss Betty helps me with reading, she’s nice!” And, Deraven asked me if Miss Vi could be her Big Sister in out Community Program.

These relationships are special and it just goes to show that it doesn’t matter about age or race or what you look like. When a caring adult spends time with a child it makes a difference!

Laura Reilly

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