Mankato Family YMCA Brother/Sister Mentoring Program Announces 2025 Mentors of the Year
The Mankato Family YMCA Brother/Sister Mentoring Program has announced the recipients of the annual Guiding Light Award, honoring the volunteerism of community member mentors and program partners.
This year’s awards will be presented to:
- Sam Murray, Brother/Sister Community Based Mentor of the Year 2025
- Lori Vetsch, School Based Mentor of the Year 2025
- Mary Groothuis and Andrew Miller, Pen Pal Mentors of the Year 2025
- Tim Cashman, Community Mentor Program Partner of the Year 2025
“The Guiding Light Award celebrates the accomplishments of our mentors & community partners, and the contributions that their dedicated service represents. Through their volunteer service, these individuals and partners have ensured the continuation of the YMCA’s commitment to improving the lives of others. Their commitment has strengthened the bonds of cooperation and trust that brings people together, while helping to address some of the greatest challenges of youth in our community,” said Tom Schueneman, Director of Social Responsibility for the Mankato Family YMCA. “On behalf of the youth in our community, it is my honor to congratulate the recipients for their important work.”
Established in 2016, the Guiding Light Award is given annually to individual mentors who represent and model what an exemplary mentor can be. It is also given to a community partner who willingly supports and advances the Brother/Sister Mentoring Program’s mission. The collective impact of mentoring work in the community is valued and the Guiding Light Award recognizes those who are passionate in their work with and for youth.
Awards will be presented April 14, 2025 during a presentation at the Mentor Appreciation Dinner held on the campus of Minnesota State University, Mankato, in the Centennial Student Union Ball Room, Mankato, MN. Major program sponsors include; Greater Mankato United Way, Mankato Area Foundation— The Phil & Margie Slingsby Fund and The Ryan & Jill McKeown Fund, MEI – Total Elevator Solutions, and Schwickert’s Tecta America. For more details about attending the dinner, call 507-345-9815.
