| Hi ! In this issue, you'll read:
WYN Spreads Holiday Cheer
Mentor of the Month
WYNNER Theater
Angel Tree
Holiday Giving
Dare to Discover the Magic of WYN
WYN Spreads Holiday Cheer
On Thursday, November 29, the 8th grade WYN Project Venture class teamed up with 7th grade ACES class at Bethel Elementary School to help spread some holiday cheer throughout the High County. The two groups visited the Mountain View Rest Home and spent the morning singing Christmas carols, telling stories about themselves, and serving coffee and sweet treats to the residents. The wonderful people who live at Mountain View often experience many challenges in their everyday lives, which is not something that most of our kids see or hear everyday. The Bethel students were not phased, however, and they eagerly rose to the occasion of visiting with these residents to talk, eat, and spread holiday wishes. When the group left Mountain View that day, they all agreed that Christmas is truly about being thankful for what you have and giving part of yourself to help others. Contributed by Nicole Hiegl, WYN's Prevention Program
Mentor of the Month
For the month of December, WYN's Mentoring Program would like to recognize Andy Kruse for his outstanding commitment to his mentee over the past year. Andy has been a stable, consistent role model for his mentee, leading to a relationship that has truly become more than a mentor/mentee relationship; they are real friends. The two have weathered several storms, but, after it all, they have become great friends who truly enjoy opportunities to share ideas, opinions, and perspectives on life. It is always a pleasure to spend time with Andy and his mentee, be it rock climbing or eating ice cream. You will always find yourself laughing and having a great time. When the match began, Andy and his mentee were in two very different places. Over the past year, however, a lot of growth has been seen in Andy's mentee. This mentee has shown a lot of personal growth by becoming introspective and thoughtful towards others. The young man has learned how to treat people and how to have common courtesy, which are things he has picked up from spending time with Andy. It is always impressive to see a mentor making an impact on a youth, and in this situation, I feel that the relationship is reciprocal. WYN is so lucky to have such wonderful people involved in all of the programs, and Andy is definitely someone who deserves recognition for his positive contributions to youth in our community. Thanks Andy! Contributed by Angela McMann, WYN's Mentoring Program
WYNNER Theater
WYN After School Participants at the Eastern Site were involved in a six-week Creative Drama Project facilitated by Anna Ward, ASU faculty member, and her Theater and Dance students.WYN middle school participants took part in weekly lessons that helped them learn the basics of creative movement and expressive drama. The finale was a full scale dramatic presentation at the ASU IG Greer Auditorium on December 5th. This presentation included multi-media skits and a re-enactment of one student's dream. Thank you to Anna Ward and the ASU students for supporting our efforts to provide diverse and enriching opportunities for WYN's Middle School students! Contributed by Angela Grimes, WYN's After School Program
Angel Tree
This year, as in years past, WYN would like to extend our gratitude to the members of the Boone United Methodist Church for adopting the youth of WYN this Holiday season. The generosity of these individuals is humbling, and it ensures that each child we serve will have a bright Christmas morning.We also thank the Golden Corral for giving their patrons an opportunity to take an angel from their tree and thus provide much-needed gifts to our youth. We are amazed by the generosity of our community again and again.
Holiday Giving
As the end of the year approaches, WYN, like most other organizations, has asked for the support of the community. Many of you have given to WYN instead of purchasing gifts for your family members, and many of you have given to WYN in addition to your family and other organizations. For all of this, we are grateful.If you are still seeking a charitable cause to support this year, we would ask that you consider supporting WYN and its 345 youth served on an annual basis. Your money will ensure that area youth have safe and supervised activities in the after school time, good role models, and opportunities to learn healthy decision-making skills. You can donate online at www.westernyouthnetwork.org or mail your check to: Western Youth Network/ 155 WYN Way/ Boone, NC 28607. You may also support WYN for free by using GoodSearch. Every time you need to search the Internet, go to www.goodsearch.com and type in Western Youth Network as the charity you are supporting. WYN is paid one penny per search. Every penny is invested in the fortune of our future--High Country youth.
Dare to Discover the Magic of WYN
"You will either step forward into growth, or you will step back into safety. "
Abraham Maslow
To make a tax-deductible donation to WYN and help us reach our fundraising goal, please mail your check to Western Youth Network 155 WYN Way Boone, NC 28607. Or, make a credit card donation online through our website www.westernyouthnetwork.org.To learn more about volunteering in our mentoring, after school, or prevention program, or to make a referral, please visit our website www.westernyouthnetwork.org or contact Jennifer Grubb at (828) 264-5174.
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