“Mentoring is a friendship between two people. And it matters because there are so many people out there that don’t have that support in their life, that most of us have had growing up – a positive role model, somebody to bounce ideas with, somebody to help them make good choices,” – Deborah Neary, Nebraska State Board of Education member and Executive Director of Mentor Nebraska shares in our film. ​“Something as simple as a friendship between two people can make a world of difference, and all the research tells us that.” 

Mentors – and volunteers more broadly – provide the opportunity for everyone in our community to enrich the education of students. Volunteers are an invaluable resource to our teachers and our whole community. Those who volunteer in our schools develop a sense of pride in contributing to students’ success and their time has an impact and this month we’re celebrating those who make a difference in our schools.

From TeamMates Mentors to parent volunteers and community partnerships, how are you and others in our community volunteering your time with our schools? Tell us about a special volunteer in your school or a volunteer program you participate in on our Stories page, include a photo or video, and explain why volunteering matters.


Don’t forget to wear your I Love Public Schools gear Friday, April 5 and share photos with the #ilovepublicschools online.