RAPID CITY, S.D. — A few months before the pandemic hit our area, Teammates started up in the Rapid City School District. Matches have met virtually over the past year, but plan to remain strong over the years.
The Rapid City School District saw an opportunity to improve the lives of their students through the school based mentoring program, Teammates.
Brandi Christoffer, Teammates Program Coordinator, says, “When we can make a positive impact on a students life, I think that has a positive impact on our community and mentoring is just about being another person in child’s life.”
The mentor and student typically meet once a week. Mentoring is a chance to make an impact in a child’s life – to be another person on their team.
Lisa Draper, Teammates Mentor, says, “We need to be here for the community and help the students, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know my mentee. Just to be there for somebody you know, know matter what – you know just to lend an ear, sit there and listen to them, be there for support – just to be another person in their life.”
Kamryn was a new student at North Middle School when she heard the announcement about the program. She wanted to be a part of the program and has been matched with Lisa for over a year – and says her enjoys her positive energy.
“She’s just someone else I can really rely on and go to if I need advice or help,” says North Middle School seventh grader Kamryn Stauffacher. “I love how she is just always so smiley and so kind to me – she’s always there for me.”
Being a part of the program also has positives affect on the mentor.
Draper says, “Getting to know more about her and her family and she’s just an amazing girl.”
Currently the program is operating at a few schools in Rapid City. More area schools plan on getting on board with the program later this year.
Donations are welcomed to operate the program. Anyone interested in being a mentor or a mentee can contact Brandi at Brandi.Christoffer@k12.sd.us.
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