CRESCO – For Derrick Andersen, a sophomore at Crestwood High School, knowing his mentor Gene Koschmeder has brought plenty of fun and guidance into his life. The two have been participating in the mentoring program out of the Helping Services for Northeast Iowa for about three years now—enjoying every step along the way.
The pair has experienced many activities together, including fishing, rock climbing, sledding and even go-karting. While Andersen says his favorite activity has been bowling, Koschmeder has really taken to the car shows.
But aside from all the fun activities, mentoring can bring so much more out of life. “I get a chance to do things that I enjoyed while I was growing up—and still do enjoy,” said Koschmeder. “Mentoring keeps me young, and I can make a difference doing something right here in my community.”
For Andersen, he says the value that he sees in the mentoring program is as simple as having a good friend that he looks up to, along with just having fun. He also says the best part of the program, for him, has been meeting his mentor. “He’s there when I need him,” Andersen said.
Koschmeder says he values just being able to talk with his mentee, adding that he has learned from Andersen, as well. “[He has taught me] to slow down and just enjoy the little things, and that you can make a difference,” said Koschmeder. “I’d encourage more people to get involved as a mentor. It’s something you can do right here in your community.”
Koschmeder offers advice for those who want to become involved in the mentoring program: “It’s easy, there are many planned group activities and events throughout the year. It’s well-structured and the guidelines are well-outlined, so it’s safe and enjoyable.”
This year, the month of January marks the eighth annual National Mentoring Month, which is celebrated throughout the United States. In recognition of this, the Howard County Board of Supervisors will sign a proclamation deeming January 2010 as National Mentoring Month for Howard County. The signing will take place in the County Board of Supervisor’s room in the Howard County Courthouse on Jan. 18 at 10:30 a.m. Anyone in support of mentoring is welcome and encouraged to attend the signing of the proclamation.
Those interested in becoming involved in the mentoring program are invited to contact Katy Schwartzhoff at Helping Services for Northeast Iowa, Inc. at 563-387-1720 ext. 108 or visit www.helpinservices.org. Mentors and mentees typically meet for four to five hours each month and matches are made through identifying similar interests between the youth and the mentor.
This article was written by the Times Plains Dealer Editor, Keri Bugenhagen
