1. Why support an organization like CFI?

I spend my working life with nonprofit boards and executives but have much less interaction with the people their programs benefit. I have been feeling led for a while to find an opportunity where I could share some of my experiences with a young person. One of the obstacles had been location, since my office is in Fishers, and a significant number of mentoring opportunities in Indianapolis would be hard for me to get to on a regular basis. I volunteered to support a friend who works at the Options Charter School in Noblesville and heard good things about CFI, so I started supporting CFI financially last fall and am excited about getting started in the next month or so as a mentor.

2. How has mentoring played a part in your life?

I can’t recall that I have ever had someone who was officially labeled as a “mentor”, though that terminology seems to be often used today. I am grateful to my parents for their guidance and can think of many people –  teachers, coaches, pastors, supervisors, and friends – who have made a lasting impression on the way I think, act, and live.

3. From your perspective, how can mentoring in schools help our community?

I know adolescence is a tough time for most young people. It’s typical to question the people in your life with authority, and your peers aren’t any better prepared for life than you are. It’s nice when students can make a connection with a teacher, but there needs to be more adults available.