Success Stories
From Project Move & Across the Country
Stephanie (right) and her mentor Jessica stand outside Jessica's new apartment before Stephanie gets ready to head to the Seattle area.
Stephanie signed up with Project MOVE in January of 2006 and was matched with Jessica in March of that year. Stephanie, a senior in high school at Central Valley, and Jessica, a junior at Gonzaga, shared similar interests and also some very unique life experiences. These connections enabled them to 'break the ice' and form what is sure to be a long-lasting friendship.
Throughout their relationship, their strong work ethics kept them extremely busy and made it difficult for them to always get together, but they were able to stay connected. After high school and with Jessica's support, Stephanie decided to take college classes at Spokane Community College. "It was nice to be able to talk things over with Jessica when I had questions about school or whatever else," Stephanie said of her relationship.
"I think I was able to answer some of Stephanie's questions," Jessica stated, "but more importantly I think I was just there as someone who she knew would be supportive. And it was great because she was supportive of me as well," Jessica added.
Now, both are transitioning to a new stage in their lives. Jessica has decided to stay in Spokane, recently moving into a new apartment and securing a position in her chosen field. Also this month, Stephanie will be heading to the west side of the state to pursue a career in the clerical field, and most likely continue her education. "I have multiple interviews next week and am excited about the chance to begin working," Stephanie said when asked about leaving Spokane.
The two plan on maintaining contact via phone and email even after Stephanie's move. Both hope they can meet face to face whenever the opportunity arises. Congratualtions to both Stephanie and Jessica and good luck in the future.
Charmaine and Chris -- Baldwin, NY
"Charmaine has helped me grow socially and academically in numerous ways. My mentor has made a difference in my future. Together we have created life-long goals, and we have a friendship which will continue to flourish. Because of Charmaine's belief in me, I am confident about the challenges lying ahead and I am now better prepared for them." ? Chris John Garcia
Chris Garcia calls his mentoring relationship with Charmaine Robin, an employee with State Farm Insurance, "a life-altering experience." Charmaine came into Chris's life at a very pivotal time: his freshman year of high school. With her unwavering support, Chris has created goals that he says have made his high school life "more fulfilling and enjoyable and has reinforced my academic standards." Together the two consulted with teachers, guidance counselors and others who helped prepare Chris for college and the future.
Now a high school senior, Chris has taken on a demanding workload of honors and advanced placement courses all designed to help him achieve his goal of pursuing a career in physical therapy. He's also active in the Future Business Leaders of America, a varsity indoor track competitor and a Web designer for the Robotics team. Says Chris, "As I look forward to graduation, I know that my future is brighter because Charmaine Robin has been my inspiration and mentor."
Pat Banhazl, coordinator for Baldwin Senior High School's mentoring program, noted "Mentoring has made a difference in the lives of so many students in the Baldwin School District. We are very fortunate to have so many caring mentors from State Farm Insurance Company, as well as our own faculty members from Baldwin, who volunteer their own time, provide encouragement, and serve as adult role models. We are truly grateful."
