Wanted: Mentor for boy

Recently, the newspapers have included many back-to-school sale ads from local merchants. They advertise items such as school supplies and clothes that kids need to start off the school year.

One thing is missing from these ads: Many kids in our area want to start off the school year with a Kinship Partner - a partner who would take the time to hear how school is going and who would be there to go to school activities with them.

How great it would be to advertise for partners for all the kids on our waiting list. Since that is not possible, let us tell you about a boy who is waiting for partner.

Jeff is a quiet 10-year-old who lives in Brainerd. He likes playing video games, bike riding, bowling, soccer and anything mechanical. Jeff would like to learn to water ski and would enjoy doing other outdoor activities with an adult partner. He would like a partner who is nice, talkative and patient. Jeff also thinks it would be fun if his partner had a couple of kids. His mother hopes he will get a mentor that he will have fun with and who will expose him to new experience and opportunities. Jeff describes himself as nice, active and quiet and he does say that he gets bored easily.

This young boy needs some one-on-one time with a caring adult. He is anxious to have someone to share new experiences with.

If you would like to share your friendship and spend some special time with Jeff or any of the other children on our waiting list, call Kinship Partners at 829-4606 or e-mail mentors@kinshippartners.org. If you live outside the Brainerd area, call (877) 730-5437 for an application. You may also visit our Web site at www.kinshippartners.org.

We have a child waiting for you. Become a mentor for what you can give. Stay a mentor for what you receive.