From the Kids

In Their Words...

Graduation is always a time for celebration, particularly when mentors have inspired a young person to achieve the goal of high school graduation. The following quotes are from TeamMates graduating seniors as they responded to the question, "How has your experience with the TeamMates Mentoring Program impacted your life?

Andre: TeamMates has had a huge impact on my life. It has made me more independent as a student and as a person. It has shown me that one hour a week can change someone's mental focus and put them on a path to be successful.

Izela: My teammate, Sue, was really helpful every time I met with her. I've known her since 4th grade. I was nervous meeting her, but when I saw her, I knew it was going to work out great. Because of her, I became a better student.

Brandon: Having a TeamMate made me feel like I always have someone to talk to, even when I'm not feeling the greatest.

Robert: TeamMates has let me know that there are people in this world that want to help others get back on their feet. TeamMates made me believe in myself.

Nate: TeamMates has been one of the best experiences I have ever had. I would recommend anyone to join. I think it is positive for school and for students. I have been in TeamMates for six years, and I have loved every minute of it. My TeamMate, Doug Anderson, was the biggest influence in my life. He always told me to do my best. He helped me many times, and he always made sure I was doing good work in school.

Jessica: TeamMates taught me the importance of doing well in high school and getting a college degree. It has helped me look toward the future.

Teanna: The TeamMates Program has been a great asset to me. My mentor and I have been together for six years, and we became very close friends.

James: My TeamMate, Todd, has been a great man and friend to me. I have known him since sixth grade he and his wife became very close to me. This program has taught me that there are people who care and want to help the youth become successful. TeamMates is a program that I would recommend for any student that could use help in school and life. I will apply to become a mentor when I'm old enough.

Tony: TeamMates impacted my life greatly. My dad has been sent overseas and then moved to another state by he military. I really wouldn't have had a father figure in my life if it wasn't for my TeamMate, Doug. He has been there for me through everything and helped me through some tough times. Anytime I needed to talk to someone, I knew Doug was a phone call away. I'm very thankful for being able to be a part of TeamMates. I don't know what I would have done without it.

Chelsea: TeamMates changed my life!! Reading was always a challenge for me. My 9th grade year came and I didn't do so well in my English class. My mentor, Janet, helped me every week to think and learn new words. The very next year, I raised my grade and my reading level. I am so thankful to be part of this program and to have been paired with my wonderful TeamMate.

Amanda: TeamMates impacted me a LOT! I did better and my grades got better. I plan on being aTeamMate as soon as I can.

Lauretta: I wish I had been involved with the program a long time ago. I'm grateful for this program because people care about you and they want you to succeed.

McKenzie: My experience with TeamMates has been wonderful. I've had my ups and downs in life and no matter what, my TeamMate has been there to listen and give me good advice. Once I graduate from college, I want to become part of the TeamMates Program and be there for someone, just like my TeamMate has been there for me.