Sioux Empire United Way is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children, vulnerable adults, and people in crisis. Each year, we distribute funds to more than 70 programs supporting individuals across the Sioux Empire. But we don't stop there.
In addition to raising and allocating funds, Sioux Empire United Way (SEUW) encourages our staff to volunteer up to one hour a week in our community. Team members receive 52 paid time off hours a year to spend with organizations close to their hearts. For two team members, this meant partnering with Lutheran Social Services for their In School Mentoring program.
What is LSS In School Mentoring?
Lutheran Social Services (LSS) offers three distinct mentoring opportunities for children in grades PreK to 12: In School, High School, and Community mentoring. All of these programs aim to empower young people to succeed by establishing trusting relationships with adult volunteers.
As their largest youth mentoring program, In School mentors spend one hour per week with an elementary or middle school student at their school. Typically, matches meet during the school lunch hour, so their time together might be spent:
- Eating lunch
- Playing board games
- Reading a book
- Playing outside
- Sitting and talking
Since 2001, LSS has partnered with Sioux Falls area schools to match thousands of students with adult mentors. To ensure everyone's safety, youth mentors are thoroughly trained and background screened before meeting with a student. Each match is also overseen by a Mentor Coordinator at the child's school.
An art essay provided by a student in the LSS In School mentoring program.
Their Story
In 2021, it was reported that the need for LSS mentors was "greater this year than it ever has been," and despite consistent growth, the need continues.
According to Michelle Madsen, Senior Director of Community Services at LSS, 227 new mentors joined their program, but they "expect to need at least 250 more this coming school year to help keep up with demand."
During the 2023-24 school year, there were 1,244 In School mentoring matches, 74 more than the previous year. Yet, at the end of the school year, every school indicated they still had a need. In fact, title elementary schools in Sioux Falls have 140 students waiting to be matched.
LSS has been incredibly blessed to deliver mentoring services in the Sioux Empire for over 20 years. More than 95% of kids have been described as having an increased sense of confidence since meeting with their mentor. "There are so many great stories shared of lifelong friendships, powerful conversations, and fun activities," said Michelle. "Students just crave that individual time with an adult. It makes them feel so special and appreciated, and for many, like they have a friend. Every kid should have the opportunity to feel that way."
Rachael Alwin & Jill Chedester pictured in front of the LSS Mentoring sign.
Their Impact
Rachael and Jill, two dedicated SEUW staff members, stepped up to address this need by becoming LSS mentors. Their stories highlight the profound difference a mentor can make in a student's life and the rewarding experiences that come with it.
Rachael, motivated by a news article and Mayor TenHaken's call to the community, started mentoring in December 2023 with a kindergartener from Laura Wilder Elementary. She fondly recalls, "My mentee and I had a lot of fun picking out a new game to play each week during his lunch. I don't know if you've ever tried to play chess with a 6-year-old, but there sure were a lot of new (suspicious) 'rules' that I've never heard of!"
Jill began mentoring in March 2024, influenced by her growing interest in the program and encouragement from a coworker. She enjoyed playing board games, solving math problems, and even participating in Field Day activities with her mentee. "My favorite memory was seeing her face light up every time I came to mentor," Jill shares. "By just being present and listening, you are making a difference in that child’s life."
Both Rachael and Jill experienced the joy of seeing their mentees grow more confident and trusting. "He started getting excited every time he saw me sitting on the bench near his lunchroom. I'm talking jumping up and down, squealing, and running over to give me a hug," Rachael recalls. Jill adds, "She learned how to trust me and that she could be herself."
They both highlight the ease and fulfillment of mentoring, encouraging others to join. "Committing to a whole school year's worth of volunteering may seem daunting, but the excitement the students experience when they see you is irreplaceable," Rachael notes. Jill emphasizes, "Mentoring is a unique opportunity to step outside of your ‘normal.’ You may change that child’s life, just by showing up and taking a sincere interest in their life."
Your Impact
Through the dedication of mentors like Rachael and Jill, LSS's In School Mentoring program continues to make a profound impact on students’ lives. The need for more mentors is greater than ever, and every new mentor can help bridge the gap, offering students the chance to feel valued, supported, and confident. If you’re considering becoming a mentor, now is the perfect time to step up and make a difference.
To become a mentor, you can check out the process or fill out an application here.
A drawing from Rachael's student.