October 15, 2008

For more information, contact Kathy Schwartzhoff, Mentoring Program Coordinator, Helping Services, 563-387-1720 ext. 108

Hoops & Scoops was a Slam Dunk

Mentoring programs at Helping Services hosted their first special recruitment event, called Hoops & Scoops, on Saturday, October 11th at Ridgeway Elementary School.  The event scored big in the hearts of those in attendance.   Twenty-eight adults and youth played various games of basketball (the Hoops) games to get to know each other, “Championship Basketball”, pig, and stinger.  After the games, everyone enjoyed soupy ice cream (the Scoops) and more visiting time.

The purpose of this event was to introduce the mentoring program to new potential mentors and mentees.  Special thanks to the members of Luther College’s Social Work Association and Chi Theta Rho sorority who provided some great positive role models for the youth in attendance.  We also extend a big “high five” to Jerry Brown, Ridgeway’s principal, for being there to guide us and congratulate us when the balls went swoosh.

There are three community-based mentoring programs operating through Helping Services.  Building Bridges Through Mentoring is the Winneshiek County program with 29 youth matched with adult mentors.  MY Club is Howard County’s program with 13 program participants.   The Allamakee Mentoring Program has ten youth involved with adult mentors.  There are 25 youth on a waiting list.

Mentors in the program spend 4-5 hours per month with their youth doing activities such as working on a car, fishing, going on a walk, sledding, or going to movies.  Matches are made based on the similar interests of the youth and adult friend.   Youth in the program do not have to meet any special criteria other than to live in or attend school in the county.  Adults also have another short-term time option to volunteer as a Mentor For A Day.  Mentors For A Day agree to be at mentoring events as they fit their schedule and agree to be a buddy for the youth for that 3-4 hour time span.  

To become involved contact Kathy Schwartzhoff at Helping Services 563-387-1720 or visit: www.helpingservices.org