Donna Friar embraces what has happened for her through TrueMentors.
The retired Newaygo grandmother says she’s re-engaged in enjoying children and is more open about friendships.
Drawn to mentor after Newaygo Police Chief Georgia Andres' presentation, Donna “wanted to help provide experiences to a younger girl who may not have otherwise experienced."
Matched since March 2018 with Alicia, a 10-year-old fourth-grader, she has also been able to show her 13-year-old granddaughter, Savannah, how to be there for others as a junior mentor.
They relish time together through plays, church, camping, swimming, fishing, bowling, karate, basketball, visiting the Grand Rapids Children's Museum, shopping at thrift stores, and stopping in at Donna's antique shop.
Donna has seen Alicia grow, pointing to her singing return after an open mic night at a local café.
“Alicia only sings when she is comfortable with people in the room, but she says that is how she knows she trusts those around her,” Donna stated.
TrueMentors offers one-on-one mentoring, and currently has 16 active matched pairs with 22 children awaiting a mentor. To get involved, contact Lisa Brown, TrueMentors Program Director, at (231) 924-0641, ext. 109, or lbrown@truenorthservices.org.
