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All three couples were at the Y-Pals mentor event, held Thursday, Jan. 29, at Berte's Back Nine. More than 40 mentors and their young pals enjoyed free pizza and whacking golf balls on the indoor driving range.
"I have a total of 71 mentor matches right now," explained Y-Pal Coordinator Bonnie Geving. "I normally have six to eight kids who need a mentor. Right now I need a few good men for boys on my waiting list."
James is 10 years old, and he and Marv have been Y-Pals for more than three years. James is a tow-headed boy with a broad grin and big blue eyes with a lot of energy.
"Marv is a lot of fun. He's a really nice guy," James exclaimed between bites of pepperoni pizza. "He helps me keep on track. He teaches me golf and things."
"This is an important age for a boy," explained Marv. "I know what it is like growing up without a father. It's not easy to do. It has been rewarding for me watching him grow up and mature. I've seen a lot of progress in three years."
Marv has 12 grandchildren and keeps busy, but finds time for James every month. James' favorite memory is canoeing with Marv at Smith Lake Park.
"We tipped the canoe over and got soaking wet," James said. "It was good we were close to shore."
A close second for favorite activity is heading to the farm and getting to drive a small truck and a tractor. Marv emphasized that he was next to James the whole time.
"It's neat watching a city kid learn about farming," Marv stated.
Ireland is 7 years old, and she and Sara have been Y-Pals just since October, 2008.
"We've carved pumpkins and we went to Marley and Me," Ireland said. "We made Christmas cookies together."
Her favorite part? Eating the cookies.
"My kids are all grown up," explained Sara. "It's fun to have someone to take out and do things with."
Jordan, 13, has been partnered with Jeanne for more than three years. She's a pretty, dark haired teenager and she brought her sister, Kylie, age 6, along to have pizza and hit golf balls.
"We go shopping and out to eat," said Jordan. "It's great. She listens to me, and she knows all my teachers and talks to them about me."
But for Jordan, even though today she brought her sister, the best part of being with Jeanne is being able to get out of the house.
"I've enjoyed watching how Jordan has grown up, transitioning from elementary school to middle school," said Jeanne. "She helps keep me informed of what is really going on."
Jordan had two words for anyone thinking about becoming a Y-Pal
"Do it."
For more information about the Y-Pals program, contact Bonny Geving at 515-295-7701.
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