National Volunteer Week

This week is National Volunteer Week and as board member and chair of Kids ‘n Kinship, I want to take this opportunity to publicly thank and express my appreciation to the Kids ‘n Kinship volunteers/mentors and all volunteers for their public service. It is the generous giving of time from volunteers that strengthens our communities; whether it be working with children, the elderly, the disenfranchised or protecting our environment and the animals.

I am very proud and honored to a part of Kids ‘n Kinship. Kids ‘n Kinship is a youth mentoring organization in Dakota County.  Its mission is to provide friendships (mentors) to children ages 5-16 who are in need of a positive adult role model. Mentors can be individuals, couples or families who are able to share just a few hours each week with a young person. Activities can include sports, games, crafts, being outdoors, or just hanging out. Thanks to our wonderful volunteers, Kids ‘n Kinship currently has 80 young people matched with adults. And thanks to these volunteers, the waiting list for mentees gets shorter and shorter. But the need for mentors and volunteers is ongoing.

National Volunteer Week is not just an opportunity to express gratitude for all volunteers, but to encourage volunteerism. As any volunteer will tell you, “you always get back, more than you give”. If you're interested in learning more about mentoring & Kids 'n Kinship, you are invited to attend our next information session on Saturday April 27th, 2:00-2:45 pm at the Wescott Library in Eagan (1340 Wescott Rd.).  You can also check out our website www.kidsnkinship.org.

Janet Lekson
Board Member
Kids 'n Kinship