Goldsmith: Buddy Program inspires
I believe that every child, no matter their circumstance or background, can benefit from having a trusted adult mentor. That is why I am inspired to support the Buddy Program year after year.
I have observed firsthand the value of mentoring for the youth in this valley. As a parent and teacher, I have been able to see children feel more confident socially and academically after having a mentor. I’ve also observed improvement in their grades and mental health after experiencing a positive relationship with a caring and consistent adult.
The experience of having a non-family member volunteer to help build a child’s confidence and deal with everyday stresses is an integral part of what makes the Buddy Program successful, and I believe in their mission wholeheartedly! They are empowering youth and giving them opportunities that are creating confident leaders in our society.
I ask the community to join my family and me in supporting the Buddy Program by attending their Bash for the Buddies fundraiser on July 6, donating, or considering volunteering as a big buddy or volunteering at one of their events. Every bit of support helps them to fulfill their mission and our local youth need that support now more than ever.
For more information, please visit http://www.buddyprogram.org.
Katie Goldsmith
Aspen
‘Wolves at Our Doorstep’: Advocates introduce gray-wolf mix, address rancher concerns at Aspen Ideas Festival
As Colorado’s collared wolves continue to make their way deeper into the Western Slope, professor of wildlife ecology at the University of Colorado Boulder Joanna Lambert pointed to previous wolf re-introduction efforts in the United States to bolster Colorado’s re-introduction plan during the Aspen Ideas Festival on Thursday.
