Building Bridges: SIEF, M.A.Y. Mentoring and SHS united for mentorship program

BY JAMIE BURDORF

In Shenandoah, a partnership was recently formed that has the potential to change the lives of local students for many years to come. The Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation (SIEF) was approached by an alumnus about a mentorship program pairing up alumni with current students.  SIEF, known for its mission of enhancing educational opportunities for the entire Shenandoah School community, saw an opportunity to make a difference in both the Shenandoah School District and the community.

Meanwhile, M.A.Y. Mentoring, a community based mentoring program dedicated to supporting and encouraging students in the community, was more than willing to help link together the foundation with the school district to make this happen.

The goal of this partnership is to create a sustainable system where students can utilize a wealth of knowledge from experienced individuals who had walked the same halls, faced similar challenges, and gone on to build successful careers.

Recognizing the potential in combining their missions, the Shenandoah Iowa Education Foundation, M.A.Y. Mentoring and Shenandoah Schools decided to join forces to create the Shenandoah Alumni Network that would connect current students with graduates from a wide array of colleges and universities attended, fields of study and professions. This collaborative effort would not only help students receive mentorship during their school years but also give them ongoing access to a supportive network long after graduation.

Here is where we need your help!  If you’re willing to become a mentor, which could include a one time conversation or something more ongoing, please fill out the form below.  As students come to school and want to reach out to a mentor, the student will be paired with an alumni that will be able to give guidance and answer questions.  

To fill out the form to be a mentor: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc07kNLyX16pmL1v_nQnlfMvyuOUeYB22wTa9zGvDLgs6KK2g/viewform

If you have any questions, please reach out to Jamie Burdorf at: j_burdorf@yahoo.com or Lindsey Roberts at: robertslin@shenandoah.k12.ia.us.