TeamMates Celebrates Mentors, Mentees With Annual Walk

Nearly 100 people made their way around the Neligh-Oakdale track on Friday evening in support of the school's mentoring program.

A hamburger and hotdog feed followed the 11th annual one-hour walk in the high school lunchroom. Proceeds from the walk-a-thon help support the N-O mentoring program.

During the meal, several mentors were recognized for their long-term dedication to the program, as well as recently matched and yet-to-be matched mentors.

According to TeamMates coordinator Denise Gunderson, Neligh-Oakdale's program has seen significant growth in the last year. The chapter has nearly 20 students matched with mentors from the community and has several new mentors who will be trained and matched with students in the fall.

"We truly appreciate the support from the community," Gunderson said. "Mentors are giving one hour a week to a student and really making a difference in their lives. TeamMates is a wonderful organization that gives support to students. Everyone can use a friend and mentor to add to their support system."

Gunderson said 31 members of the organization attended the spring Nebraska football game last month. They also organized a bowling party in the winter and a movie night last fall for mentors, mentees and parents.

Those wanting more information on the Neligh-Oakdale TeamMates Mentoring Program can contact Gunderson at the school by calling 402-887-5290.

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