Did you know that mentoring transforms lives? Research shows that kids with mentors view themselves and their futures more positively than those without mentors. Not only do they view themselves in a more confident light, but they also achieve more positive outcomes in school, the workplace, and their communities. Growing up is challenging for every kid, but, with a mentors can help make it a little easier. 

Every week for the past three years I have been lucky enough to spend a few hours partned with a local, Columbus City Schools elementary school student. This past year I was able to expand my role, while still holding onto my buddy, who I had been paired with for two years. Leading an entire group of third grade students taught me so much, and brought me so much joy.

After seeing my buddy graduate the program last year, I was eager to take on a bigger role, and do more to support an organization that is so close to my heart. As I enter my senior year at OSU, I am lucky enough to have been chosen as a vice president of programming, where I will be managing the program for one of our 6 partner schools.

Seeing all of my buddies each week and participating in fun activities together with other mentors and buddies has made my college experience so much more rewarding. I have made many new friends, while learning alongside my buddy about careers, culture and diversity, and community service. Not only do we like exploring our world together, but my little buddy helps me grow as a person too. This program helps me to give back to my community, and I'm learning important leadership skills in the meantime.

I can't do all of this without your help, though! Please consider making a gift to help me meet my fundraising goal! Your contribution will allow us to continue to provide this program for free for our buddies so that we can spread the powering of mentoring.