The Partnership For Our Kids is so lucky to have such amazing volunteers! The time and energy each devotes to their students is a testament to just how much they care. One of these groups of true-life superstars, volunteer at Monroe Middle School! “The best group of mentors, EVER, work with the Monroe 8th graders,” says Partnership Program Specialist, Amber Nawroth. “They are amazing and show up to every after-school meeting ready to truly bond with their mentees and make a difference in their lives.”
Each of the five volunteers in the Monroe group are at very different points in their lives, ranging from college classes to retirement. Mike Janda is a student at Creighton University, who hopes to pursue Dental School after getting his undergraduate degree. Bev Fleckten is a retired research coordinator from UNMC and loves spending time with her grandchildren and doing outdoor activities. Mary Green is the director of the Dundee Community Garden and is a leader of the Omaha Sierra Club. Bryce Montalbo is a recent college grad and is preparing to attend medical school next year. The newest member of the Monroe team is Josey Corritore. Josey is originally from Waterloo, Nebraska and grew up riding and showing horses, competitively and although she no longer does it competitively, she still enjoys riding for fun. Despite their varied backgrounds, the one thing this group does have in common is the commitment they have to their students.
“They are not only committed to their mentees inside the classroom but they’re also invested in their social lives as well,” says Nawroth. From apple-picking adventures in Nebraska City, to sporting events, ice-cream socials, bike rides and beyond, these marvelous mentors have kept their mentees active and exploring a side of their community they don’t always get to see.
Although the students love getting to go out with their mentors, it seems that the things they most enjoy are also the simplest. Monroe 8th grader, Danessia says the biggest thing her mentor has taught her is the importance of reaching out to others. “You should always try to help someone in need,” she says. Fellow student, DeaDrean says the thing he has appreciated most about his mentor is that he doesn’t try to pretend to be someone he’s not and he stands up for what he believes in. “He encourages us to be our best,” says DeaDrean.
The Partnership would like to extend a special thank you to all of our wonderful volunteers, who are making a difference in the lives of students every day!
To learn more about volunteering with The Partnership For Our Kids, click on VOLUNTEER
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