Mentor School students support those in need of a helping hand
By Mimi Vanderhaven
As we head into this season of cherishing those who are dear to us, Mimi thought it would be the perfect juncture to shine a light on efforts by our local schools to support the community.
In September, several hundred riders ages three to 12 rolled into the Mentor High School Stadium for the VeloSano Kids Trike & Bike. At the end of the day, they raised more than $8,400, 100 percent of which goes toward pediatric cancer research.
“We appreciate our community partnerships,” says Kristen Kirby, director of community relations for the Mentor School System.
“Unfortunately, students in our school district have been touched by cancer, so when we can do something to get together and raise money to help fund very important and necessary research, we’re happy to do that.”
Other community organizations at the event included the Mentor Fire Department, which rode in on Comfort 54, the lavender fire truck that raises cancer awareness, as well as the Mentor Police Department, which was on hand to spread the word about its bicycle safety program. Face painting, balloon artistry, sidewalk chalk and silly sideline games made the day a family-friendly fun fest.
“One the most beautiful things about this event is that we are teaching children how important it is to give back, to care about each other, and have a lot of fun while they are learning an important life lesson,” says Kristen.
“We are a community and when something not so great is happening to someone, we can come together and do something about it.”
Throughout the year, Mentor students reach out to those in need, whether it’s volunteering at Lake County’s Relay for Life over the summer, or raising funds for the American Heart Association and the United Way.
“We are also proud of our kids in all the schools for contributing to the Feed Lake County effort every year, as well as going to local senior living facilities to visit with their neighbors,” she adds.
Look for these monthly stories to cover topics at every level of the schools throughout the school year. The Mentor School system educates 7,600 students from pre-K to grade 12 in eight elementary schools, three middle schools, one high school and one school for students with autism. For details, visit MentorSchools.net.