Mentor Monday
Introducing Lauren & her son Gavin
I feel very lucky to have a mentor at this point in my life as I feel most of us lose our way at some point or another. Having a mentor that has similar life experiences, doesn’t pass judgment on my flaws and failures and is open and understanding makes me grateful. After all, isn’t life about learning and growing from our triumphs and mistakes?
Thankfully I was given the opportunity to have a mentor as I’ve had some difficult things happen in my life within this last year. I am new to the area, and it’s hasn’t been easy to meet new people. I have at times felt like I had nobody here to call if I needed help or an ear. I now have someone that is connected to the community and knows the area. Someone I can connect with and do mom things or just chat. Life gets hard alone.
I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Family Mentor Program and to grow in my community with positive people in my corner.
Introducing Jory
Introducing Valerie
Hello, my name is Valerie Morton. I am a mother, a foster mother, a sister, and a friend too many people.
I love Girl Scouts of which I am a lifetime member. I have been in Girl Scouts 25 years. My daughter has been in for 12 years she’s working on her gold project. I am a Troop leader to middle school and high school girls. Cadettes and Senior levels in Girl Scouts. I am also on the Service Unit Charlotte 11. Girl Scouts is all about morals and character and so much more.
I help with Toys for Tots every year as it is a passion of mine to see that every child receives a gift for Christmas. Children should just get to be children.
My mother started a 501C3 charity 28 years ago the Community Resource Center of Punta Gorda INC. I have been there every step of the way. We have a food pantry distribution a couple times a month and we are so much more than just that.
As a foster parent I touch a lot of lives. 17 children have come through my home since July of 2019. I love every one of them. I have 3 foster girls and a bio daughter. There is a lot of love in our home. I hope every child who is entrusted in our care feel our love and is better for it.
I am enjoying being a mentor and look forward to continuing to do so for a long time to come.
Introducing Jacquie
Introducing Michelle
Introducing Laurel
1 year later…
“During this last year with children’s network I was paired with my very first family. Working as their mentor has been a wonderful and rewarding experience. I have loved being able to work with them one on one to help them with their goals and to aid them in their pursuit of a bright future. I am confident that they have many great things that lay ahead for them and their family. I am grateful to have been able to offer support to them through this part of their journey. I look forward to what life has in store this coming year.
I would like to give thanks to the other senior mentors and coordinator who have offered guidance, and to the various organizations dedicated to the mission of supporting members of our community. “
