Joe Smith has come full circle in terms of his interest in public education. He studied teaching before embarking on a career in marketing. Since retiring two years ago, he has renewed his commitment to education by volunteering for CAM, Community Access Mentoring. He spends about two hours a week preparing for and meeting with his middle-school partner. As Smith describes this decision, "I felt the need to become involved again, and I'm enjoying it immensely."

CAM is a program dedicated to providing school-based mentoring aimed at accessing quality afterschool programs for middle school and high school youth. Currently, there are 50 mentors active in one-on-one relationships with the ultimate goal of creating 150 mentor/student partnerships.

The CAM students are selected by teachers and staff within the school system. They aren't necessarily considered at-risk students, but rather kids that could benefit from developing a trusting relationship with an adult other than his or her parents in order to develop after-school activities.

Smith's "Cammer" is the oldest child in his family. Consequently, his after school time is often spent looking after his siblings. Smith has helped him to identify and follow through on activities for himself. For example, the boy is interested in basketball, so Smith helped him complete the requirements to join the team. The day his partner was ready to start playing was very exciting for both of them, and he loves his participation.

Smith enjoys the opportunity to make a difference in the life of a child. As well, he admits, "This pursuit is more difficult than many of my professional challenges. We often want immediate results, but creating trust and changing lives takes years for the outcome to be realized, if at all."

For information about volunteering with Community Access Mentoring (CAM) or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.