Chautauqua Striders recently hosted its annual Mentor Dinner, a heartwarming celebration of the vital role mentorship plays in empowering local youth. The event took place on January 23rd at The Chautauqua Harbor Hotel, bringing together mentors, community members, legislators, and an impressive lineup of distinguished speakers.
This year’s program featured inspiring remarks from respected leaders who shared their perspectives on the importance of mentorship and community involvement:
- John Kinder — Program Director of TheZone
- Senator George Borrello — New York State Senate, 57th District
- Kimberly Ecklund — City of Jamestown Mayor
- Elisabeth Rankin (on behalf of Andrew Molitor – New York State Assemblyman)
- Christine Rinaldi (on behalf of Congressman Nick Langworthy)
- Pierre Chagnon — Chautauqua County Legislator
- Sheriff Jim Quattrone — Chautauqua County Sheriff
- PJ Wendel — Chautauqua County Executive
Each speaker shared heartfelt stories and highlighted the positive impact of mentorship on academic success, personal growth, and self-confidence. Mentees Jasmarie Velasquez, Joshua Treacy, and Laura Arnold delivered a moving reading of the poem A Wealth of Wisdom. The dinner was further enriched by musical performances from students Levi Treacy and Rachel Hobbs.
Chautauqua Striders extended its deep gratitude to its generous funders, whose support makes these transformative programs possible: Chautauqua Region Community Foundation, Holmberg Foundation, Jessie Smith Darrah Fund, The Lenna Foundation, Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, Ralph C. Sheldon Foundation, and United Way of Southern Chautauqua County. They also thanked dinner sponsors Artone Furniture by Design and Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union, and Jordin Lynn Photography.
The organization also recognized its valued educational partners: Jamestown Public Schools, Southwestern Central Schools, Bemus Point Central Schools, Falconer Central Schools, and Frewsburg Central School District.
“Our mentors are an incredible group of volunteers who give freely of their time, talents and resources to guide, encourage and empower students to meet their full potential.” said Director of Mentoring, Erika Maberry. “They have such a big impact on local youth and our annual dinner is a nice way to give them some well-deserved recognition.”
The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in young people and the invaluable role mentors play in guiding them toward success.
For more information about Chautauqua Striders and its Mentoring program, or how you can become a mentor, contact Erika at (716) 489-3483 or erika@chqstriders.org.
