Almost four years ago, when my wife Theresa and I moved from Oakland to Santa Rosa, we were looking for ways to become more involved in our new community.
That pesky billboard in Boyes Hot Springs kept reminding me: by mentoring, I could fulfill a critical need and make meaningful connections. The more I learned about the Mentoring Alliance and its impact in Sonoma Valley, the more convinced I became. In December 2021, I was paired with Alexis, then a second grader at Dunbar School. It’s been quite an adventure since. We’ve had our share of ups and downs, made wonderful memories, and now middle school is just around the corner.
Theresa and I have been fortunate in our lives, and giving back has always mattered to us — especially when it helps young people overcome obstacles and reach their potential. When reviewing our estate plan, the Mentoring Alliance was the first organization we thought of. With more than 25 years of success, we want to help ensure its impact continues for generations. Legacy giving gives us peace of mind that our values will live on.
We can’t say enough good things about the Mentoring Alliance: the dedication of its leadership and staff, the devotion of mentors, and the life-changing impact on mentees and their families. We’re lucky to support an organization we believe in completely. We’re thrilled to contribute in our small way and encourage others to consider their legacy. As Winston Churchill said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.”