Mentoring program seeks volunteers
Mentoring is a way to get more in return than is given.
That’s the message of volunteer mentors in the Cape Region who were recognized Oct. 20 in Georgetown by state leaders, local officials and mentors who proclaimed the benefits of the Sussex Mentors program, and also expressed the need for more mentor volunteers.
Adult mentors each work with a child to help the student perform better. Mentors talk about school, family, or anything at all, said Karen Lessey, Millsboro Middle School mentor program coordinator and member of the Delaware Mentoring Council.
Lessey was among several mentors honored Oct. 20 in Georgetown. Delaware First Lady Carla Markell, who also mentors, thanked those who served and emphasized more mentors are needed.
“Mentoring to me is the most rewarding volunteer work I’ve ever done. It’s a one-on-one relationship you create with a child,” Markell said. “In Sussex County there are so many wonderful retirees. They are like grandparents-in-waiting because the wisdom they can impart really changes the life of a child.”
The only way to reach some children is through a close relationship, like the one mentoring provides, said Markell.
Lessey told the story of an introverted student named Tommy, who had a hard time making friends. After becoming involved with a mentor, Tommy made a complete turn-around.
“By the end of the school year, Tommy had friends, more self-confidence and was outgoing,” Lessey said. “I could talk for days on the benefits that I have seen firsthand as a mentor. Children who have mentors are more likely to enjoy school, go on to a higher education and avoid substance abuse.”
An adult or relative must refer a student to the mentor program, which means at least one person already cares about the future of the child, Lessey said. Mentoring just adds another layer of caring and really helps the student explore new opportunities.
“For Tommy, he was matched with a wonderful mentor and their relationship blossomed,” Lessey said. “There are hundreds and hundreds of children whose lives have been changed because of an adult who cared, listened and was a good role model.”
Becoming a mentor
Many students are still waiting for a mentor in Sussex County; volunteers are always needed. Anyone who can give as little as 40 minutes each week can become a mentor and change the life of a child, Lessey said.
“There are no special skills required; all it takes is the desire to be a positive influence in a child’s life,” she said. “For some mentees, the best part of their week is when they get to be with their mentor.”
Many local businesses promote mentoring among employees, including NRG Energy outside Millsboro. The facility works closely with Millsboro school to provide mentors for students. It was because of this dedication to mentoring that NRG was recognized with a proclamation read by Rep. John Atkins during the mentoring event. Lessey’s program through the Indian River School District was also recognized.
Research has shown 92 percent of parents saw an improvement in their child’s self esteem, Lessey said. High school students, retirees and community members can apply for the mentor program in Sussex County. A background check is done and three references are required for the application.
For more information, call Creative Mentoring and Connecting Generations at 302-656-2122 Ext. 15 or go to www.creativementoring.org. For more information on Lessey’s program, contact her at 302-934-3200.
