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

Mentoring Training To Be Held

Building Bridges Through Mentoring would like to invite all current and new mentors and parents of mentees from Allamakee, Howard, and Winneshiek programs to attend a training session on Tuesday September 30th from 7-8:30p.m. at the United Methodist Church’s Fellowship Hall, in Decorah.  The training will focus on a new community resource for families called “Community Circle of Care”. 

Carol Hagen, staff person and social worker from Community Circle of Care, will lead the discussion.  She will give pointers for working with youth, especially those with special needs.  Carol would like the mentors and parents to come with any questions or concerns they have. Refreshments will be served. 

Kathy would like to extend a special invitation to both new mentors and “seasoned mentors” to attend. Those who have been mentoring for awhile can share their expertise while the new mentors can get ideas from everyone.  Please call Kathy to RSVP at (563) 387-1720 ext. 108 as soon as you know your availability.  

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