CIS Kansas Connector

January, 2010

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This year marks our 15-year anniversary, and we're celebrating by launching our $15 on the 15^th campaign!  While we reflect on the work that we've accomplished, the greatest gift of all is realizing how many children have been able to achieve their goals and reach their highest potential with a little help from CIS.   We invite you to celebrate with us by making a $15 donation on the 15^th of each month.   With JustGive, you can set this recurring donation, or you can give $180 now to cover the entire year! 

"Programs don't change people... relationships do."

-Bill Milliken, founder, Communities In Schools

Having a strong one-on-one relationship with a caring adult is vital for every young person.  "Friendship without judgment" is the way Lora describes her relationship with her YouthFriend, Nikkol.  The two connected in 2005 when Nikkol was in 4^th grade, and Lora felt like she had a lot to offer as a mentor.  Now five years later, their bond continues to grow as Nikkol progresses through her freshman year at Ulysses High School.                    

Lora says in the beginning their friendship was exciting because it was new.  She enjoyed getting to know Nikkol and the way her young mind worked.  During those elementary years, the two had fun reading together, playing games and simply talking during lunch time.  When Nikkol moved into middle school, finding time for their activities became more challenging because of the drastically reduced lunch hour. 

Now, as a freshman in high school Nikkol has grown into a beautiful young lady.  The two continue to enjoy lunch together and have more time to spend conversing about their lives and personal experiences.  "We've been talking more about the future," said Nikkol, who is currently exploring different career options.       

Five years have passed since they first became YouthFriends, but one thing remains the same: they are still excited to see each other each week.  The two agree that YouthFriends has been terrific and they are both fortunate to have the opportunity.  "We have a lasting friendship." 

Mentor matches can be a source of strength, inspiration, and support, and they have a lasting effect on each others lives.  All of our affiliates in Kansas offer a one-on-one relationship with a caring adult, one of our Five Basics, and many of those special bonds are formed through a mentor match with YouthFriends or Big Brothers/Big Sisters.  Since January is National Mentoring Month, we want to share with you some personal stories about the mentors some of us at CIS of Kansas have had, and how they have contributed to our lives. Read our stories here.

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Learn more about Communities In Schools of Kansas at www.ciskansas.org