What does being a mentor for LAUNCH mean to you?

Being a mentor to me means simply just being present. Being an ear to listen, a shoulder to rest on, or a hand to help someone up. I simply try and be the things that I myself sometimes need from others.

What part of your role do you find most fulfilling?

The most fulfilling part to me is just seeing the boys smile and laugh. Seeing them just enjoy the moment.

How long have you been with LAUNCH?

My family and I attended a few LAUNCH events before becoming involved, but I've technically been a mentor since August of 2022.

What do you do when you're not mentoring for LAUNCH?

I am employed as a Soil Scientist with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation service, In my free time I enjoy plucking at my guitar,

kayaking with my wife, and learning traditional archery.

What do you most hope LAUNCH mentees will get out of this year's program?

I hope the mentees see that there are people that truly care about their future besides family and friends. People willing and wanting to help them become better young men. People they can turn to when times get tough. Basically, just that they're not alone. This world seems to be getting crazier by the minute. I hope they find this organization and the mentors involved as a source of stability and brotherhood.