Sparks Stories
Mentees in the program are encouraged to identify and explore their spark, with the help of their mentor and the support of their parents. For more information about Sparks click on the links below.
Have you ever thought about what gets you excited? What gets you out of bed in the morning? Everyone has a spark, a special quality, skill or interest, that lights them up. When we express or pursue that spark, we bring something beautiful and positive to the world.
The Search Institute developed the concept of sparks based on extensive research. Youth who know and develop their spark with the support of several adults have higher grades, better school attendance, are more socially competent, and have a sense of purpose. Mentoring Programs at Helping Services has embraced this concept with much enthusiasm. Mentees in the program are encouraged to identify and explore their spark, with the help of their mentor and the support of their parents. This process builds self-confidence and allows youth to recognize their strengths.
Sami, a mentee in the program, discovered her interest in Laura Ingalls Wilder along with her mentor Martha. They decided to read Little House on the Prairie together. After completing the book, they made a trip to the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum in Burr Oak, IA. Sami’s favorite part of exploring her spark was the museum and learning more about Laura Ingalls Wilder. Martha and Sami would love to pursue this interest further by reading more Little House on the Prairie Books.
Another mentee, Kayla, learned how to scrapbook from her mentor Kathi. Kayla soon discovered she enjoyed scrapbooking. Kayla and Kathi started making a scrapbook that recorded all of the fun things they did together. Experimenting with different tools, embellishments, and materials, Kayla expressed her love of creating “awesome pages”. With the help of her mentor, Kayla took her spark a step further by using her newfound artistic skills to make tray favors for the residents at Aase Haugen in Decorah.
Mentors have sparks as well and by helping their mentee, mentors often find new passions of their own. By identifying and exploring their spark, youth in Mentoring Programs can grow into responsible, purposeful and passionate adults. Learn more about helping youth identify their spark by calling Kathy, Marilyn, or Joelle at (563) 387-1720 or visit our contacts page.
