The Youth Mentoring Network (YMN) is a non profit organization that pairs adults ranging from about 25 and older with children in their local community. The program helps specialize in helping kids find a mentor and help adults find a mentee who either doesn’t have parents or whose parents are very busy. The YMN was formerly known as the Big Brothers and Big Sisters Program. Being matched up with a mentor or mentee takes time and coordination.

The regional coordinator, Ashley Flaherty became the coordinator on June 30th, 2023 but initially got involved with YMN to pursue her passion of working with children.

“I found out about the youth mentoring network through a job listing  and decided to take the job!’ Said Flaherty. ‘ I thought it would be a great way to work with kids and adults’ said Flaherty. “When I got the job to become the coordinator I was over the moon, I was so happy.”

Flaherty plans activities for mentors and mentees ranging from mini golf to possibly a Nailers game.

“The mentors and mentees may want to do a number of activities such as going out to eat, or cooking,” said Flaherty.

Michelle Dietrich is the head principal at Steenrod Elementary and a volunteer mentor for YMN.

“I became a mentor in October of 2021,” said Dietrich. “I saw a post on facebook and let them know I was interested.”

All of her kids were grown and some students she knew benefitted from having a mentor and thought it sounded like a fun opportunity.

“I love to be a mentor, I really like the group activities, I enjoy getting together for dinner and ice cream! ‘My favorite activities were rock climbing and horseback riding!” said Dietrich.