Lynn and Monica -- Grand Island, NE

When Lynn and Monica entered the TeamMates mentoring program in 1999, they were already meeting regularly to read together at Walnut Middle School. "When Lynn and I became involved with TeamMates, I thought of it as a good opportunity to reach my dream to go to college," Monica said.

English is a second language for Monica, who was born in Mexico. Consequently, reading was once one of her more difficult subjects, but with Lynn’s help, she reads and speaks with ease. Lynn learned that Monica had a career interest in becoming a dental assistant, and arranged a job shadow opportunity for her to observe at a dental office and ask questions about the profession.

Lynn says of her relationship with Monica, "During our five-and-a-half years as friends and TeamMates, we shared the ups and downs of life. We acted as true and dedicated teammates would…when one struggled, the other was there with strength and insight to back them up. We developed a friendship that will carry us far into the future."

Monica agrees, "I remember laughing together, but also crying on her shoulder. I trusted her and opened my heart to her. She won my respect and a special place in my heart."

When May 10, 2003 arrived, Monica and Lynn had much to celebrate. Lynn remembers, "Monica’s graduation day was one of the happiest days of my life. In my role as school board president, I was there to award Monica’s diploma to her and give her a hug. For most of the time I have known her, Monica has [been] accountable only to herself and her internal sense of right and wrong. I am deeply in awe of her fine, outstanding character. We are so proud that she is the first person in her family to graduate from high school. She has a new goal now. With the financial assistance of the $1,000 TeamMates Scholarship, she is studying at Central Community College to become a dental assistant."

Monica adds, "We were both so happy and excited. I couldn’t believe that I had actually made it so far. I have done many things by myself and without any help, but trying to get through high school and having problems at home was very hard. With Lynn’s help and support, we both made it...together. I am so thankful for being part of TeamMates and also for receiving the scholarship."

Lynn and Monica -- Grand Island, NE

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