Summer has arrived and the cicadas seem to have quieted a bit! My friend Kari, in Joplin however, has been busier than ever and this summer will be a very stressful time for her and her staff. When I saw Kari last week she said her staff has been putting in twelve hour days six days a week and needed some rest. If you would like to help in Joplin you might want to visit her website to learn how to volunteer or how to send a much needed financial gift. Susie's quilting group is having a baby shower for one of Kari's staff members and a couple of our summer interns plan to spend a few days helping out. I'll try and keep you updated on any news I hear. http://www.theallianceofswmo.org/tornado-relief-info

Young Parents Busy!

	One Happy and Healthy Toddler!

Of course young parents are busy and those participating in our YP program are especially busy. They just finished up Toddler Classes and Nancy is coming to their homes with great home visit activities. This month they will also be learning how to fix some simple, tasty meals using the herbs they planted last month.

July will end with a fun-filled evening at the Splash Zone (with a lesson on water and sun safety!). Sammie has also created a new Facebook page which we hope will keep us better connected to the young people we serve. If you know a young parent (under age 22) who would like to be a great parent and would like support from a trained and trusted mentor please give us a call (573.368.2849).

Celebrating Mentors!

	Sammie, Marilyn, Robyn, Debbie Estey, and Valerie Brunk/ Debbie and Hannah

Last week I was so sad I didn't get to attend the YP Mentor Mixer but I did get to attend a retirement party in Columbia for Marsha Shasserre, a long-time friend and co-worker. I especially wanted to attend because our very own Valerie Brunk received the Mentor of the Year Award! Valerie has helped Rose negotiate some unbelievable challenges and even when Rose graduates from the program this summer I know Val will continue to be part of her life. I was so happy Valerie received this much deserved award.

Long-time friends and mentors Ron and Barb Kosher (owners of a Miner Indulgence B&B) received the Above and Beyond Award for their tremendous support and service. Our Making the Difference Awards were given to Debbie Estey and Jane Haskell for their hard work and caring hearts. 

All of our mentors deserve an award but every year we can only recognize a few of these extraordinary people in a special way. If you have considered becoming a mentor please email or call Marilyn - I know she would love to hear from you and we always need new mentors!

There are lots of things happening here and we would love to get you involved! The Resale Shop is always looking for donations and volunteers; we need mentors (men and women) and referrals to our Young Parents program; Early Care and Education team are working hard and planning big surprise for next spring; Capable Kids and Families is awaiting good news on a grant they have in the wings; we have several youth in our Independent Living Program who are getting ready to start college; and Fit Helps is gearing up for a busy summer. Please let me know if you have any questions or ideas for programs and services - you are the reason we get to be here! I hope you find some time this summer for some peaceful days filled with fun!