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Mentors on a Mission!


Shaping the Next Generation…

'Karen and Jay describe the critical role of mentors in shaping lives and positively impacting the future'


I wonder if you’ve ever had a mentor?  Or perhaps even several mentors over the course of your life. Wonderful individuals – with wisdom and experience who have given you guidance, helped you set the course and at times, provided pivotal advice. 

 

I know that I’ve had several such relationships – all incredibly valuable – and probably as a result, I find it immensely rewarding to return the favor by passing it on and helping to mentor and guide the next generation.  I honestly feel I get at least as much satisfaction and learning from these relationships as the people I have mentored.

 

As I’m sure you’ve probably experienced, mentorship plays such a pivotal role in the lives of young, aspiring individuals, offering guidance, support, and wisdom that can significantly shape their paths.  Serving not only as a role model but also as a beacon of knowledge and experience. Mentors provide insights that come from years of navigating the complexities of life and careers, often sharing lessons that mentees remember for a lifetime.

 

In the world of sports, I look to the relationship between legendary coach Phil Jackson and his star player, Kobe Bryant.  It serves as an inspiring example. Jackson, renowned for his coaching philosophies and ability to cultivate talent, mentored Bryant during their time together with the Los Angeles Lakers. Not only did Jackson teach Kobe about the nuances of the game, but he also imparted invaluable life lessons about teamwork, discipline, and mental resilience. Their bond grew strong as they faced challenges together, culminating in multiple championships. Jackson’s mentorship helped Bryant evolve into one of the greatest basketball players of all time, emphasizing the significance of mentorship not just in developing skills but in shaping character and work ethic.

 

Another notable example – this one from business - is the relationship between Steve Jobs and Mark Zuckerberg. As Zuckerberg was navigating the early stages of Facebook, Jobs provided not just technical guidance but also insights on leadership and innovation. His mentorship helped Zuckerberg cultivate the confidence to steer his young company through trials and challenges. Jobs’ belief in him and his ideas served as motivation that propelled Zuckerberg forward.

 

I find these examples exciting and inspirational.  Hopefully, you feel this way too.  So, how to take action?  Well, if you might be looking either to mentor or be mentored, several notable organizations formalize these relationships and provide structured opportunities for engagement. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, SCORE, and the MENTOR Network connect experienced professionals with youth and emerging leaders, fostering beneficial relationships that encourage personal growth and career development. In participating in these programs, mentors have the unique chance to reflect on their own journeys while imparting wisdom that can make a significant, lasting difference in someone else's life.

 

Ultimately, mentorship is a two-way street, rewarding both the mentor and the mentee and cultivating a legacy of knowledge and inspiration for generations to come.  If you haven’t already done so, please give it a try and begin to experience the wonderful rewards that a mentorship relationship can offer.

 


Breaking Down Barriers: How New Hampshire's Mentoring and Adult Education Programs Foster Lifelong Success

 

The New Hampshire Department of Education (NHDOE) has a strong commitment to lifelong learning, particularly through its adult education and mentoring programs. These initiatives are vital for fostering growth and preparing individuals for successful, meaningful lives, especially those with special needs.

 

Adult education in New Hampshire dates back to the early 20th century, designed initially to help individuals who had not completed high school. Over time, it expanded to offer a range of services, including literacy, vocational training, and personal development. In recent years, the department has placed a greater emphasis on serving adults with special needs, recognizing the importance of preparing them for independent living and meaningful participation in their communities.

 

Mentoring programs are a cornerstone of these efforts, connecting learners with mentors who offer guidance, support, and real-world skills. For individuals with special needs, mentoring helps bridge the gap between academic learning and practical life skills, providing a sense of empowerment and self-confidence. The NHDOE collaborates with various organizations, including nonprofit agencies, community groups, and businesses, to offer these programs, one of which is called the ‘10,000 Mentors’.


The NH 10,000 Mentor Program, founded by Fred Bramante and endorsed by the New Hampshire Department of Education, is an ambitious initiative aimed at enhancing student learning and development through the power of mentorship. One of the unique aspects of this program is its integration with the state's Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) programs, which encourage experiential learning beyond the traditional classroom setting. By connecting students with industry professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders, the 10,000 Mentor Program seeks to provide students with real-world experiences that deepen their education and help prepare them for life after high school.


As a matter of fact, a recent Gallup study found that the more career connected learning experiences had by high school students the more these students were engaged in school and were hopeful about their future. 10,000 Mentors is about purposefully engaging our businesses, non-profits, and talented individuals for the benefit of our students.

The significance of the above programs lies in their ability to create inclusive, supportive environments where individuals can thrive, regardless of their challenges. The focus on mentoring is particularly impactful, as it provides role models and personalized instruction to those who may require additional guidance. Whether through job training, social skill development, or emotional support, mentors play a key role in helping all adults achieve independence and fulfillment.


I’ve always had mentors and oftentimes I would have a couple of different mentors helping me in different ways related to my business ventures and other elements of life’s journey.  Spiritual mentors have also played an important role in developing me into the person I am today. Some people try to separate (or silo-ize) these fundamental areas of our lives, but we are one person, one holistic intelligent being – with multiple facets where mentors can play an impactful role. 


Tomorrow’s Future Starts with Mentors Today! 

I love the fact that we in the Granite State are true proactive leaders in mentorship – shaping the destiny of the next generation.  In fact, numerous mentorship programs in New Hampshire play a crucial role in shaping the future workforce and fostering leadership among the Granite State’s residents. By connecting individuals with experienced mentors, these programs provide guidance, skill development, and emotional support, helping participants navigate personal and professional challenges. Two standout programs, Best Buddies and the ACE (Accelerated Career Education) program, exemplify the state’s commitment to mentorship. 

 

Best Buddies www.bestbuddies.org/newhampshire is an international organization with a strong presence in New Hampshire, dedicated to fostering inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through mentorship, the program builds meaningful one-on-one friendships, creates leadership opportunities, and promotes job placement for those with IDD. The program’s impact is profound, offering social integration and essential life skills that improve participants’ self-esteem and independence. Best Buddies helps prepare individuals for the workforce by providing soft skills training and connecting them with job opportunities, making them more competitive in the labor market.  One of the Sunshine Initiatives members has been an active participant and always talks about how great these events are - for everyone!

 

The ACE mentor program www.acementor.org based in New Hampshire, focuses on high school students who are eager to accelerate their education and enter the workforce. Through a combination of mentorship, internships, and early college enrollment, students are paired with professionals who guide them in career development. The ACE program empowers young people to make informed decisions about their futures, building both their technical and leadership skills. This program is crucial for industries facing workforce shortages in New Hampshire, particularly in trades, health care, and technology sectors.

 

Beyond Best Buddies and ACE, other key mentorship programs are equally vital to New Hampshire’s future.  Introducing Granite Edvance  https://graniteedvance.org/ (formerly The NHHEAF Network)  We're a New Hampshire-based education nonprofit serving NH students and families offers mentorship for students navigating the complexities of college preparation and financial aid, ensuring that young people have access to higher education. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters of New Hampshire https://bbbsnh.org/ match children with adult mentors who provide long-term emotional support, help build resilience and develop leadership potential.

 

These mentorship programs are not just about skill-building—they are about shaping a more inclusive, prepared, and adaptable workforce. In a state like New Hampshire, where economic challenges and changing demographics require innovative solutions, these programs help bridge the gap between education and real-world application. They nurture the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the tools to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities, ensuring that New Hampshire remains a vibrant and thriving state for generations to come.

 

 

Positive Profile of the Week: Mentorship, Golf, and the Unlikely Success of the NH Duck Drop

This week we are delighted to highlight an innovative and creative leader – who credits a great part of his success to a mentor relationship that has been pivotal in his life’s journey – Geoff Martin.


As shared by Sunshine Initiative colleague, Jon Morton: 

“Whoosh… In my backswing, I realized the mistake I had made in both my stance and connection with the ball. Way off to the left and into the woods goes another Titleist 1 golf ball. With a knowing smile, my golf partner for the day, Geoff, looks at me and says, “Results, often harsh, always fair.”


Aside from the links, Geoff has been a mentor to me in many ways over the years. I initially met him nearly 40 years ago when he was just starting out in the world of carpentry and remodeling, and I was working my first job after high school at a building supply store.“

His quote, one of his favorites, comes from one of his mentors, Brian Klemmer. Brian was a West Point graduate who started a personal and professional development training company in 1995. Geoff attended all the courses several years ago and has since referred dozens of others to participate, with his ripple effect reaching well over 100 students. Countless people around the country have been positively affected, whether directly or indirectly.


Geoff attributes much of his success in business, personal relationships, health, and nonprofit contributions to the mentoring he gained through Klemmer. In the process, he has been able to mentor many others. Sometimes, it’s on the golf course; other times, it’s with both of his remodeling businesses, which he has mostly retired from after mentoring the new owners. Although Geoff doesn’t like to use the word “retired,” preferring “time re-allocation,” which definitely has a more positive image.


Much of his time nowadays continues to be spent mentoring on the golf course, at Klemmer seminars, and in business and life decisions. He also dedicates time to a creative fundraiser he started eight years ago: the NH Duck Drop on Mount Sunapee, which just held its 8th annual event on October 5th. If you missed it, check out their website  https://nhduckdrop.com/


A partnership of three builders, a website/marketing company, and the Mount Sunapee Ski Area, with over three dozen sponsors, the annual Duck Drop is a great event Geoff created as a way to give back.  The way it works is that you buy a lift ticket and rubber duckies, each numbered on the bottom. Then, you ride to the top and drop the ducks randomly at targets all the way down. If your duck is closest to the target or is randomly picked from a bucket or similar target, you win a prize. These range from a Yeti cooler, a Blackstone grill, and $500 gift cards to sunset lake cruises and much more.  And get this - total raised for the Duck Drop since its inception 8 years ago: $869,573!!! 


Why a Duck Drop instead of a golf tournament, especially since golf is such a huge part of Geoff’s life? In fact, if you’ve played on a simulator at a golf course in NH, or in one of several private homes, there’s a better than average chance that Geoff was the sales representative—or, as he would probably say, “product demonstrator.” One of the great lessons you can learn if you’re lucky enough to be mentored by Geoff, who could likely sell you just about anything, is that his secret is he never tries to sell.


Are you looking for something better, more, or different in life? Why do you think you don’t have it? If you’d like to find out why and do something about it, Klemmer has the answer. I’m sure if you reach out to Geoff, he’ll be happy to introduce you to what has helped him become such a successful mentor to so many people over the years. Here’s a link to a local class he’s helping to organize: Klemmer Workshop.


In the meantime, I’m going to work on improving my game on the greens by practicing my swing. At the end of the day, dreaming, wishing, and hoping are all fun, but it’s results that truly matter.


Oh, and why not a golf tournament? No one had done a duck drop from a ski lift before. It’s different, it’s fun for people of all ages and skill levels, and it has certainly been successful, raising tens of thousands of dollars for the Boys and Girls Club. Thanks, Geoff.


“You can’t see that flag as some dragon you got to slay. You gotta look with softer eyes.”

 

The Legend of Bagger Vance

 

 

Quote of the Week:  Importance of Mentors

"A mentor is someone who sees more talent and ability within you than you see in yourself and helps bring it out."

John C. Maxwell

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