I just enjoy spending time with Colton. I especially enjoy that he seems genuinely happy to see me (always). I have noticed that he seems to be able to focus more on things that we do compared to the prior year. Also, since spending time with Colton, our conversations have become more meaningful and longer. I love just being able to brighten his day, and in return it brings joy to me as well.

-David Sheppard

Willow is always happy to see me, and her mother says she loves the program. I really enjoy my time with her. She is very bright, and we have fun together.

-Rhonda Henson

I feel that Payton tries to be a better student when he knows I am going to ask about his week/day and see that he has been good in class and received all the check marks for the day. It’s amazing to see the impact that a little time spent with Payton each week has on him. We both look forward to our visits.

-Peter Potesta

Kids need someone to pay attention to them and make them feel important. It doesn’t really matter what you are doing with them.

-Kelly Whitlock

Being an Elevator helps me feel more connected to my community, and I have hope that I’ve helped make my student’s life a bit better. I think I gave my student something to look forward to and let her know someone cares. We have fun doing crafts and talking, and at times she made things to keep and to give away, which I thought was important for her. This student needs someone on her side.

-Katie Robidoux

I am the ‘organizer’ at my company, but I feel like the relationships I have with the other Elevators have grown and are on a different level. They come to me to talk about their kids and share their experiences! The connection with my student is the best thing about the program for me. I feel like in the few years we have been meeting, she has grown to trust me and seems to enjoy the time I spend with her.

-Janette Peggs

Jessie has clearly matured over the past year (as first graders do). He seems to be progressing academically (particularly reading). The single most important thing I get out of being an Elevator is satisfaction in making a difference in Jessie’s life.

-Nate Orders

I believe Jes’son has made me appreciate and look at things differently. I enjoy my time there each week. I just try to be consistent, and build him up.

-Aaron Settle

My student has been a blessing to me, and I have enjoyed every minute of the time we shared together. Knowing I was a role model and something he looked forward to every week is a great feeling.

-Steven Williams 

At first, Max was very withdrawn. Now he talks constantly and has a smile on his face when I show up!

-Pat Jones 

Knowing Kara looks forward to seeing me each week and her desire for me to continue through 5th grade is the most important thing I get out of being an Elevator.

-Chelsey Atkins

I have seen a positive change in Aurora. She has opened up to me more through the year and seems to talk through things on her mind better. Hopefully, I will have made a lasting impact that has helped Aurora cope.

-Maria Medvedeva