Champaign-Urbana One-to-One Mentoring Program

Kara Atkins graduated from Champaign Centennial High School in May, 2010. She met Mary Ellyn Fincham when she was in 2nd grade. Kara plans to attend EIU and study elementary education. Kara says, "Mary Ellyn encourages me to do well and gives me great advice on how to solve problems."

Heather Barnes graduated from UHS in January, 2010. She met her mentor, Sara Cook, in 4th grade at Yankee Ridge. Heather plans to attend Parkland College. "Sara has played an amazing role in my life. She’s helped me get through teachers and work!"

Corrine Bauter received her GED through Urbana Adult Ed in early 2010. She hopes to attend Parkland College in the Fall. She and Lisa Searing started meeting when Corrine was in 8th grade. "Lisa has helped me find ways to stay happy and overcome depression."

Carrie Brooks will graduate from UHS. She and JoAnn Heiser have been together since 5th grade at Leal School. Carrie hopes to attend Parkland College. "My mentor has always given me great advice, she doesn’t judge but always supports me, whatever I do."

Joshua Buck graduated from Urbana High School in May, 2010. He met Barry Weiner in 6th grade and they have met faithfully each week for the past 7 years! "Barry has taught me to be successful and to do my best to work hard for something you want." Josh plans to attend Parkland College.

De’Osha Davis graduated from UHS in May, 2010. She and Ellen Cunnington have been together since 3rd grade. De’Osha plans to attend Parkland in the fall to become an office professional. About Ellen she says, "She gave me hope and pushed me to be better."

Quinton Elam graduated from UHS in May, 2010. He and Gary Mason have been together since 7th grade. Quinton hopes to attend Lindenwood College or EIU in the fall to study pre-med or pre-law. "Gary always pushes me so that I can do my best. He is a great inspiration in my life."

Demetrius Flemons (DJ) graduated from UHS in May, 2010. He and Derrick Burson connected in 6th grade at UMS. DJ plans to attend Parkland or EIU and study business. "My mentor pushes me to try harder. Getting average grades is good but I should strive for better."

Laquan Grein-Wilkerson gradated from UHS. He started meeting with Wayne Clevenger as a UMS 7th grader. "Wayne kept me focused in the things I do. He is a positive role model." Laquan plans to study psychology at Eastern Illinois University.

Asia Gross graduated from the Academic Academy in Champaign in 2010. She has been with Cindy Sommers since 3rd grade. She hopes to study juvenile delinquency at Parkland. "Cindy’s helped me a lot by encouraging me. She always stayed on me and was there for me."