• E: dgleason@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 203

Mentor Moment: One of the most meaningful mentoring experiences in my life occurred while I was working in Germany as a civilian contractor supporting military youth programs during the Iraq War. Many of the children I worked with had one or even both parents deployed overseas in active combat zones. They were dealing with uncertainty, fear, and challenges that most children their age should never have to face.

As a mentor, my role extended far beyond organizing activities and programs. These young people needed trusted adults who would listen, provide stability, and help them navigate difficult emotions. I learned the importance of being present, consistent, and supportive, even when I didn’t have all the answers. Sometimes the most valuable thing I could offer was simply a safe place where they felt heard and understood.

• E: kkiesey@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 208

Mentor Moment: My high school golf coach taught me to play things as they lie, always following through and giving it your best shot!  Then, don’t get discouraged, there is always another shot waiting for you.

• E: ssperry@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 206

Mentor Moment: In middle school I had a super-energetic and enthusiastic orchestra director who recognized my talent for playing the cello and consistently encouraged me to build my skills and helped develop my love of music.

• E: lmercer@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 214

Mentor Moment: I’ve seen how incredible the impact of mentoring can be.  When a mentor puts in the time and really shows up, allowing disconnected youth to feel truly seen and heard – it can transform their world.  It’s like shining a light on a new path for their future that they simply couldn’t see before.

• E: agrubic@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 225

Mentor Moment: In grade school I had a teacher that frequently stayed after school with me when my family was going through a hard time. I knew I didn’t want to teach, but she made me realize I wanted to do something where I could support kids too.

• E: mgrap@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 201

Mentor Moment: I don’t think my mentor ever knew they were a mentor to me. They had gone through many of the same experiences I was navigating, yet they still chose to be a light for others. Watching that showed me who I wanted to be.

• E: tclay@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 200

Mentor Moment: I have been fortunate to have women in my life who poured into me. They exposed me to the arts, taught me skills like sewing, gardening and cooking, and made sure I felt loved.

• E: croth@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 213

Mentor Moment: I can’t think of a single adult outside of my parents who encouraged me and believed in me growing up, which is why I believe in the mission so much and want to be a part of the positive change in young people’s lives and why I so whole heartedly believe in each kid’s future. I don’t really know if you’re able to twist that to make it less sad but it’s the truth.

• E: ewhite@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 207

Mentor Moment: As a young adult, I had a mentor who taught me the importance of being a servant leader. These were skills I not only was able to use in my career roles I have had but also in my personal life.

• E: mamodeo@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 205

Mentor Moment: When I was young, I loved books told in little snapshots of a person’s life — The House on Mango Street, Catcher in the Rye — and they made me believe I could be a writer. In high school, I wrote a poem for a contest and showed it to my music teacher, Mr. Spain. He asked if I’d ever thought about turning it into a song. I laughed — I couldn’t sing — he said that didn’t matter. So we spent weeks in the music room, him at the piano, me with my scribbles, turning my poem into a song. We recorded it, and even though I couldn’t resubmit it, the contest asked to use it to open their ceremony. Hearing my words sung aloud lit something in me. My words mattered. That moment shaped who I am. That’s why I work with kids today: to be the person who sees their spark, helps them believe their words matter, and reminds them that their voice belongs in the world.

• E: jcampbell@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 221

Mentor Moment: “Don’t waste your time hating a failure. Failure is a greater teacher than success. Listen, learn, go on.” Clarissa Pinkola Estes

• E: kwise@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 210

Mentor Moment: When I was younger, I thought making a real difference meant changing the entire world. Over time, I realized something more powerful—changing one person’s world can create a ripple effect that leads to meaningful, lasting change for generations.

• E: mlemoine@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 218

Mentor Moment: I am a mentor and enjoy the time I get to spend with my Little Sister!

• E: cdewulf-bloomer@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 563-323-8006 ext. 223

Mentor Moment: Growing up, my mentor taught me the importance of resilience, kindness, and showing up for others

Mentor Moment: I’m a mentor to all the staff here! I help keep spirits high when things get busy and make sure everyone takes a much-needed break for pets.

• E: sbaca@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 309-837-5437

Mentor Moment: “Mentoring isn’t about having all the answers — it’s about showing up, listening, and being consistent.”

• E: acomstock@bbbs-mv.org
• Ph: 309-837-5437

Mentor Moment: In high school I had a mentor who helped guide me through milestone decisions. Her advice helped shape my future.  She is still a close friend today!