Shari Gliedman has loved horses since she was a kid. A self proclaimed “barn rat,” Gliedman wanted to be around horses as much as possible and learn all that she could about working with them. Now as an adult she has her own barn in Putney, Vermont with two small ponies and a Belgium Draft horse named Sammy.
When Gliedman was asked to be a mentor through Putney Family Services’ Mentor/Apprenticeship Program she jumped at the chance. “I want to provide kids an opportunity they might not have otherwise.”
Samantha Raymond was the first student from Putney Central School to work with Gliedman. This opportunity provided her with a chance to develop her skills and passion for working with horses. She has since obtained a job at a local horse barn and has a horse of her own. Her successful experience also inspired her younger brother, Jamey Raymond, to sign up to be mentored by Gliedman.
When Jamey first met Gliedman’s horse, Sammy, he was a little apprehensive but determined to learn how to ride. Gliedman coached Jamey through all the steps in taking care of a horse and going for a ride including leading the horse into the barn, brushing him and putting on his tack. As Jamey worked with Sammy, his shy demeanor became animated and open and he even began developing creative ideas on how he could build a wagon for Sammy to pull.
“Jamey has worked hard,” said Gliedman “and become more confident.” Jamey even taught Sammy some new things like how to walk around the outside of a ring. “I think I will be able to ride my sister’s horse now,” said Jamey “and help her around the barn.”
The relationship that grew between Gliedman and Jamey is just one example of many. Putney Family Services’ Mentor/Apprenticeship Program has been matching students from Putney Central School with a community member that shares a similar interest for over 10 years.
At the beginning of the school year students fill out a short application explaining what they are interested in learning more about. Nancy Hood, the program director, looks for an adult mentor that can support the student in his/her interest area. Once the student and mentor are matched, they agree to spend 12 hours working together. Past apprenticeships have included jewelry making, art, caring for animals, weaving, cooking, acting and drumming.
Hood explained that in addition to a student learning a new skill, he/she develops a sense of responsibility in making appointments with his/her mentor and keeping a journal. The relationship developed between child and mentor can also have a lasting impact. Hood reported that “often [the relationships] lead to broader opportunities for these kids.”
If you would like to get involved in Putney Family Services' Mentor/Apprenticeship Program contact Nancy Hood at 802-387-2120 or nank@sover.net. To learn more about mentoring opportunities throughout Windham County visit www.HelpEmpoerYouth.com or call 802-257-4011 ext. 111
This article is written in honor of National Mentoring Month and is sponsored by the Brattleboro Area Community Team, the Youth Initiative of Windham County, and the Windham County Mentoring Network.