EVANSTON — The inaugural awards picnic for the Mentor Match program of Evanston was held at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, in Hamblin Park. Mentor Match director Bethany Shidler led the activities, which included grilled burgers, potluck side dishes and an awards ceremony. 

The Mentor Match program matches youth with an adult for a year, although some go even longer. The youth range in age from 11-17 years, and the adult mentors are 18 and older. The local program has a 50/50 balance of women and men involved as mentors. Mentors are required to go through a background check and an extensive application and interview process. 

Mentees’ criteria are as follows: they have a disability, are seen as being at risk, are a referral from juvenile court or self-apply. Those involved must spend at least four to six hours a month with each other. The average for most matches is to have an activity together at least once a week. 

Matches are made according to likes, interests, personalities and other factors.

Mentor Britt Sloan and his mentee Daunte Howard agreed that it is a valuable program for both of them. 

“It is fun,” Daunte added.

Mentee Alexis Chandler emphatically said, “I love it. It is a good way to get to know people and make friends and help our community.”

Her brother, Deacon Johns, added, “I love the Mentor program. It’s a way to make a new friend, and they take you in like family.”

Their grandmother Elaine Chandler, who came with them to the event, was very grateful for the program. 

“My grandchildren have been placed with great mentors that have taken them into their lives and families,” she said. “They do community service projects and give back. They cook, exercise and explore science and many other things. I love the program.”

After the picnic supper, Uinta County Business Leadership Network director Wanda Rogers gave special thanks and appreciation to Anna Kunz, who started the program in Evanston. Several of the mentors and mentees told stories about their involvement in the program and how it has positively changed their lives. 

Bethany Shidler then handed out the special awards to mentors and mentees.

Receiving Mentee of the Year award was Daunte Howard for showing much improvement and dedication.

Mentor of the Year was awarded to Bekka Stout, who gave many hours and support to her mentee.

Match of the Year was given to Kristina Ruiz and Kassidy Hutchinsen, who had both given above and beyond the requirements of time and grew to have a lasting and supportive friendship. 

Shidler concluded the program by thanking everyone, giving the date for the next event and encouraging all to recruit potential members. 

“Volunteers are much needed,” she said. “We have six youth on a waiting list.” 

Those interested may contact Shidler at her office at 236 9th Street or call (307) 783-6302.