Grand Island TeamMates Honored as Regional Chapter of the Year

The Grand Island TeamMates mentoring chapter has been awarded the prestigious title of North Central Regional Chapter of the Year. This recognition is a testament to the chapter’s unwavering commitment to mentoring, community engagement, and student achievement. The award was presented in acknowledgment of the chapter’s significant efforts in mentor recruitment, building community relationships, and upholding the core values of the TeamMates mission.

Melissa Almond, the Grand Island TeamMates program coordinator, expressed her pride in the chapter’s achievements. “The TeamMates Mentoring program in Grand Island has served hundreds of students since its inception in 1999. Over the years, 435 mentors from the community have stepped up to ensure these students feel supported and heard,” she stated in a recent news release.

The TeamMates program was founded by Tom and Nancy Osborne in 1991 with the goal of positively impacting students’ lives through mentorship. What began as a project involving 22 Nebraska football players mentoring middle school students in Lincoln has evolved into a nationwide initiative that has served over 50,000 students in six states.

Impact of Mentoring on Students and Community

In Grand Island, the TeamMates chapter has thrived, serving students at Barr, Walnut, and Westridge middle schools, as well as Dodge Elementary, Grand Island Senior High, Northwest Public Schools, Grand Island Lutheran, and Grand Island Central Catholic. This growth reflects the community’s dedication to fostering student development and success.

Dianne Schneider, a board member of the Grand Island TeamMates chapter, highlighted the program’s impact on both mentors and mentees. “I am so proud and honored to be a part of TeamMates,” Schneider remarked. “It’s an amazing program that proves that just by ‘being there,’ you can make a difference.” She shared a personal story about her first mentee, who received the Osborne Legacy Scholarship for full tuition at Hastings College. That mentee has since graduated, started a family, and returned to the program as a mentor herself, showcasing the program’s ripple effect.

As the 2025-26 school year approaches, the Grand Island TeamMates chapter has already reported 97 mentor-to-mentee matches. With a growing number of students expressing interest in mentorship, the chapter’s influence is set to expand further. The ongoing commitment to supporting students is evident in the chapter’s initiatives and community involvement.

Future Aspirations and Community Engagement

Schneider expressed enthusiasm for the recognition, stating that it strengthens the resolve to promote the TeamMates program throughout the community. “This award ignites my passion to ensure that every person in Grand Island knows what TeamMates is,” she said. The chapter’s focus remains clear: to be there for students and encourage their personal and academic growth.

The impact of mentoring extends beyond individual success stories. It cultivates a sense of community and shared responsibility for the development of future generations. As TeamMates continues to thrive, the message is clear: “Join the Team. Be a Mentor.” For more information about the TeamMates program, interested individuals can visit teammates.org or contact Melissa Almond at [email protected].