Mentoring Program

Dear Employees,

On August 18, Governor Kathleen Sebelius signed an executive order that allows state employees time to participate in mentoring children through the Kansas Mentors Program. Full-time employees of the Executive Branch are now allowed to spend up to 90 minutes of regularly scheduled work time per two-week pay period mentoring with any program which is part of Kansas Mentors Gold Star program.

As a member of the Kansas Mentors Leadership Council, I encourage you to take advantage of this exceptional opportunity to make a difference in the lives of our youth. It is estimated that 50,000 Kansas children are in need of a mentor and with your help we can close this “mentoring gap.” These children are not looking for someone famous; they are just looking for someone who cares.

Studies show that young people involved in mentoring programs do better in school, are less likely to begin using drugs or alcohol, and have the confidence and positive attitude they need to be successful. And benefits also exist for you. Mentors have reported improved health and self-esteem, a feeling of accomplishment, and improved morale in their workplace setting.

Coach Bill Snyder, Chair of Kansas Mentors, will make two presentations on Wednesday, August 20th in Topeka regarding this mentoring opportunity. The presentations will be held at 9:00 and 10:30am in the auditoriums of Eisenhower and Memorial Hall State Buildings, respectively. Additional presentation locations outside of Topeka are being discussed.

For information regarding your eligibility to receive time to mentor please contact your Human Resources department. To learn more about eligible mentoring opportunities close to you visit the Kansas Mentors Gold Star Program.

Sincerely,



Mark Parkinson
Lieutenant Governor