Grand Island TeamMates Chapter Earns Regional Recognition for Mentoring

The Grand Island TeamMates mentoring chapter has been honored as the North Central Regional Chapter of the Year, a recognition that underscores its commitment to inspiring students through mentoring. This award highlights the chapter’s achievements in crucial areas such as mentor recruitment, community engagement, and brand awareness, all aligned with the TeamMates mission of uplifting youth.

Since its establishment in 1999, the Grand Island TeamMates chapter has significantly impacted the lives of students in the area. According to Melissa Almond, the program coordinator, the chapter has engaged 435 mentors who have collectively supported countless middle and high school students. “TeamMates’ mission is to positively impact the world by inspiring students to reach their full potential through mentoring,” Almond explained in a recent announcement.

The TeamMates program was originally founded in 1991 by Tom and Nancy Osborne with a vision to motivate youth through personal connections. What began with just 22 mentors has evolved into a nationwide initiative, assisting over 50,000 students across six states. In Grand Island, the program serves multiple schools, including Barr, Walnut, and Westridge middle schools, Grand Island Senior High, and several others.

This recognition reflects the tireless dedication of the chapter’s staff, board members, mentors, and the strong support from the local school districts. Dianne Schneider, a board member, expressed pride in the program, stating, “It’s an amazing program that proves that just by ‘being there’ you can make a difference.” Schneider shared her personal experience mentoring a student who later received the Osborne Legacy Scholarship, which provided full tuition for college. “She is now a college graduate, wife, mother, and giving back to the community as a TeamMates mentor,” Schneider added.

The upcoming 2025-26 school year already shows promise, with reports indicating 97 mentor-to-mentee matches established. The demand for mentors continues to grow, reflecting the community’s commitment to student success. Almond emphasized that the focus remains on being present for students, noting, “The TeamMates program is truly driven through teamwork and community involvement.”

With its recent accolade, the Grand Island TeamMates chapter aims to raise awareness about their mission and encourage more community members to get involved. “I’m excited and honored that our Grand Island chapter received the North Central Chapter of the Year award! This recognition ignites my passion to make sure that every person in Grand Island knows what TeamMates is,” Schneider said.

For those interested in learning more or getting involved, additional information can be found at teammates.org or by contacting Melissa Almond at [email protected]. The TeamMates program exemplifies the profound impact that dedicated mentorship can have on individuals and the community at large.