Thanks for letter about mentoring | Letter

Published 4:59 pm Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Many thanks to David Turnoy for his letter on July 1 explaining the very real need for additional youth mentoring on Orcas.

As the filmmaker of “Minor Differences,” the documentary he mentioned, which follows five former juvenile offenders from boys to men, I have witnessed first-hand the positive impact of the mentoring process. I feel incredibly lucky to live in a small, caring community, full of talented and generous adults – where it is possible to short-circuit problems as they arise, BEFORE they become insurmountable.

As David mentioned, we already have successful programs/staff on-island that can guide our efforts. All that is needed is more volunteers. Though it might seem intimidating to offer yourself as a mentor, and to commit one or two hours a week – to listen, read, walk, fish, cook, etc. – it is really a mutually satisfying exchange that takes place. I guarantee that you will benefit as much as your mentee.  Both the Primary Intervention Program and the Funhouse staff are skilled in matching partners of all ages for a positive experience. Please consider talking with them.

If you are still not convinced that you can make a difference in a child’s life, check out my film at the Orcas Public Library. Their stories speak for themselves.

Heather Dew Oaksen

Orcas Island