TeamMate of Month for February is chosen

The Chase County chapter of TeamMates Mentoring recognizes Carolyn Lee as February’s Mentor of the Month.
Lee became a mentor eight years ago when TeamMates Mentoring became a new local chapter, said Sheila Stromberger, TeamMates program coordinator.
Lee wanted to become a mentor in part because her oldest son, Chris, was involved with the program as a board member and mentor.
She said she admired him for that and wanted to support him.
In addition, she was also looking for ways to stay connected with students at Chase County Schools where she has been a volunteer, listening to children read.
“I enjoy getting to know the students,” said Lee.
She was matched with Shelby when she was a 5th grader at CCS. Eight years later, Shelby is now a senior.
In the beginning of mentoring Shelby, it consisted of playing a lot of games.
“Playing a game served as a conversation ice-breaker when we were first getting to know one another,” said Lee.
“I have two sons and no daughters, so it was a bit awkward,” Lee joked.
Now, after eight years of meeting once a week, they have found many things in common.
They have painted inspirational rocks and hid them around the school grounds.
They also enjoy arts and crafts projects including decorating Valentine’s Day cookies just last week.
The two still play a game occasionally, but most of their time is spent visiting, she said.
Watching Shelby grow from a carefree elementary student into a mature, independent, contributing adult is something Lee said she will always treasure.
“I look forward to continuing our friendship after Shelby graduates. It will be a new relationship outside of school, but we will always have that connection,” she added.
Lee is retired now, having worked at both McNair Agency and the Imperial Republican for many years.
She and husband Gary are the parents of two grown sons and have three grandchildren.
Lee volunteers in the community, and she is active in her church and the Lied Imperial Public Library.
Since 2014, Lee has additionally been devoting time as a CASA volunteer.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been that long,” she said.
Her hobbies include art and cooking, both of which she and Shelby enjoy doing together.
She also likes sewing, quilting, reading, gardening and traveling as some of the things she does in her spare time.
When asked for any final remarks about mentoring with TeamMates, Lee said, “For the amount of time invested of only 30 minutes a week during the school year, the reward is great. I gained a new friend and a lifetime relationship with a special young lady.”
Shelby will be graduating in the spring so Lee is planning to be matched with a new student next year, she said.
“I urge people to consider being part of the program,” she continued. “It’s very rewarding.”
The Chase County chapter of TeamMates Mentoring is actively seeking adult mentors, especially male mentors, said Stromberger.
For more information, go to teammates.org or contact Stromberger at 308-882-8177.