Karen Mehle is making sure the children of Freeborn County have an extra friend if they need it.

Mehle is the coordinator of the Community Mentor Connection. She also volunteers as a mentor. She currently is mentoring a 13-year-old girl, and they have been together for about four years.

&uot;It’s a very rewarding experience,&uot; Mehle said. &uot;I learn a lot from the girl I work with.&uot;

The Community Mentor Connection matches up kids who need extra help or support with adults who can be there for them. The mentors are there to be a role model for the kids and guide them through rough times.

As the coordinator, Mehle decided she wanted to experience what the other mentors were doing. Mehle stresses that the mentors do not try to solve problems and be miracle workers.

&uot;It’s extremely important for every kid to know outside of mom and dad, there is somebody who cares about them,&uot; she said.

Mehle and her child spend time making crafts, working on homework and cooking supper. They also just hang out or take a walk. Mehle enjoys being there to give her support when it is needed.

&uot;Just knowing you have been there for somebody, somebody who is looking for an extra friend,&uot; she said.

The Community Mentor Connection is in need of more mentors, especially male mentors. If you are interested in being a mentor, call Mehle at 379-3409. You can also e-mail her at kmehle@wfdi.ws.