Nick Macchione, director of the north region of the county's Health and Human Services Agency, approached Joe with this idea because he knew Joe has been a strong advocate for youth activities. Macchione was able to secure some start-up funding. Joe then linked with Jerry Sherk, chairman of the San Diego County Mentoring Coalition, who gave him lots of help and advice. He also looked into several similar programs throughout the country. The local schools, Kiwanis Club and some businesses have pitched in to help.
Some kids have material needs, too.
Now the youngsters have better clothing. Many of the mentors learned of the program as a result of letters to the local newspaper. About one-third of the mentors are retired teachers. The group is short on men, however. Next month, Joe will be speaking to a Methodist church's men's group about the mentorship program, trying to elicit more male mentors so the program can serve more boys.