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Mentoring the future generation

By Airman 1st Class Mariah Tolbert, 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs / Published April 27, 2012

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SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- Approximately 20 Airmen from Group 5/6 and the Eagles Club here volunteered to be mentors and get their hands dirty at the Boys and Girls Club of Goldsboro, N.C., April 26.

With the core beliefs of providing a safe place to learn and grow, making caring relationships with adult professionals through life-enhancing programs and character experiences, the Boys and Girls Club and its volunteers succeed at their mission.

"Our mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to realize their full potential as productive, responsible and caring citizens," said Marvin Ford, the Boys and Girls Club of Goldsboro's unit director.

The mission and core beliefs of the Boys and Girls club are clearly demonstrated as soon as you walk in the door. Imagine, children running around, laughing and having fun with each other, but as soon as they see someone in or out of uniform walk through those doors, those who want to learn and grow beg the volunteers to be their mentor.

"They want a mentor, someone to talk to them, help them with homework, ask questions too and give them different insights to things," said Tech. Sgt. Marius Leak, 4th Civil Engineer Squadron NCO in charge of facility maintenance. "The children are from all demographics and having those different points of views will have an impact on their life."

When asked, children of all ages said they loved having Airmen there to help with everything from learning how to play basketball to coloring or just having someone to talk to. However, the most common want from these children is help with their homework.

"Knowing that kids that young want someone older to help them out is a rewarding experience," said Airman 1st Class David Redmond, 4th Communications Squadron network administrator. "I feel like I'm giving them the positive energy they want and being the positive influence they are asking for, so when they grow up they can be successful."

For more information or to volunteer at the Boys and Girls Club of Wayne County, visit the website at www.bgcwaynecounty.com or call 919-735-2385.
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