The Mission of TeamMates is to positively impact the world by inspiring youth to reach their full potential through mentoring. Established in 1991 by Tom and Nancy Osborne, TeamMates was formed in an effort to provide support and encouragement to all school-aged youth. The goal is to see young people graduate from high school and pursue a post-secondary education. TeamMates has touched the lives of thousands of youth and mentors across the Midwest. Right now, more than 10,200 matches are meeting in schools across Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, Wyoming, and South Dakota.
TeamMates has been recognized as a “Best Practice” mentoring organization, which means the structure, policy, and procedures are in place for a safe and consistent program. TeamMates adheres to the Elements of Effective Practice, which were developed by the National Mentoring Partnership as the national standards for running a quality mentoring program.
The National Mentoring Partnership reports that 1 in 3 children will go through life without a mentor. TeamMates believes all children, no matter their life experience, can benefit from a relationship with a safe, caring adult. You don’t have to be an expert. You just have to be there.
It truly is a rewarding experience for both mentor and mentee. “I don’t do this for the accolades, but when my mentee says ‘thank you’ or ‘good to see you’, it touches me to my core,” Mentor Teri Zavadil said.
There are children waiting to be matched within our school district, so mentors are in high demand right now. You need to meet with your mentee once a week during the school year for 20 minutes to an hour, depending on their schedule. You have to be at least 18 years old, and you will need to pass a background check.
Please consider becoming a Mentor for the Fort Calhoun Chapter. Go to Teammates.org and fill out an application.
If you have any questions, please call 877-531-8326 to speak to a member of the Teammates Team or 402-237-9558 to talk to the Fort Calhoun Coordinator, Teri.
Thank you!
