First Christian Church Sedalia is in partnership with Washington Elementary to provide a mentoring program to their students.

A student like the one in this picture is paired with an adult, who spends time with the child, at least once a week for an hour, building a relationship while playing games, eating lunch, and attending special events. They also work on reading, math and any schoolwork help the student might need. Each relationship is special and the church members are finding this to add depth and meaning to their lives. One mentor is quoted as saying, “Mentoring is by far the best outreach program that I have ever been involved with. I never say, 'I have to go to Washington, because it’s always a privilege and something I look forward to.'”

This ministry was launched in 2005/2006 by church member Tim Whitmore. Tim moved to Sedalia from Jefferson City where he had been a part of a similar ministry. The ministry took off in Sedalia and now three of the five local elementary schools have similar programs run by members of other local churches.

At Washington elementary there are currently 35 students paired with adults from this church and across the community, and there are still many more students that would like a special adult mentor. For information about volunteering, please contact Loleeta Combs at First Christian Church 660-826-5300 or Michelle Hofstetter at Washington Elementary School 660-826-2216.

Story and photos courtesy of FCC pastor Rev. Chad McMullin.