Hi Friends + Family!!!

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. We all know that growing up is challenging, but, with a mentor, it’s a little easier. And that’s exactly why I’ve chosen to be volunteer with College Mentors.

College Mentors for Kids connects kids to college students through weekly on-campus activities that inspire growth, confidence, and brighter futures.

I enjoy volunteering because I get to spend time with my little buddy each week and participate in fun activities together with other mentors and buddies. For the second year in a row, my little buddy is a radiant ball of energy and now nine year old named Ari!!! He's still as sharp as a whip, obsessed with snack time, and forever pulling pranks on me. He can hold a plank for three minutes, name the four nucleic bases that make up the structure of DNA, do the worm like no other, and so much more!! Every week brings a new adventure and he's my absolute favourite travel companion. Together we love learning 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 year I've taken on the role of Transportation Officer, meaning I ride the bus to and from UVA with all of the kids and boy has it been an experience. The time on the bus and at the elementary school allows me to truly get to know each kid and the interworkings on how programs like ours function -and let me tell you it takes a village!! 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 this program on our campus so that we can spread the powering of mentoring. With your help, the excitement on kids' faces when driving on university grounds can continue for years to come :)

All the Love and Thanks,

Kaylee