I think Ashley has opened up more/felt more comfortable being herself around me the more time we spend together. I feel like I am making a difference. Going to see Ashley is often the highlight of my week! — Elizabeth King

I feel like I have gained an appreciation for the hardships Valerie is already facing in her life. She is fortunate to have the educators she has for support, and she continues to be a sweet child through it all, but her erratic behavior lately tells me she is having a hard time. I am happy to be a very small part of making her week better. — Debbie Lamey

Just by spending time and creating a relationship, the program makes an impact on all the people involved. — Jeremy Hodges

Trusting that I am making a positive difference/influence in Tanner's life is a wonderful feeling. — Jim Peterson

I’ve been with Jeffrey for 6 years. It’s been great to watch him grow and mature over the years. — Lenny Wilson

It’s a nice feeling that I am making a difference for today’s youth. My student asked if we get to be friends next year too! — Javin Thompson

I feel like we have both grown through this experience. It’s wonderful being a bright moment in the week that my kid looked forward to and I enjoy the bond that we have built. — Nicholas Andrick

I feel that I was truly able to make an impact with Adriana and create a positive and safe space for her. I enjoy helping Adriana see that there is someone out there who cares about her, and will support her. — Vita Alkire

I know Colton looks forward to seeing me, so I think I may be some stability for him. I just enjoy spending time with Colton and hearing about what has been going on. — David Sheppard

Seeing Hannah become more confident and seeing her love for drawing and painting has been one of the many highlights of the year. — Kristen Keener

It’s been great to use my experience with teaching high school musicians, and watching these skills translate to keep my kid entertained, able to learn, and on task. — Jake Davis

Just being there for someone that has a lot going on in their life around them, and may feel overlooked, is the most important part of being an Elevator to me. — Robert Ammirato

This experience helped me understand it is okay to slow down for 30 minutes a week to simply be a constant, reliable person in my students ' lives. These 30 minutes became the best 30 minutes of my week! — Brett Morris

The staff was excited to see us every time we showed up. You could tell they really cared about the impact it had on the students. Every time I went to request Michael from class, you could hear the other students chattering and asking what we were going to do that day. Being an Elevator has grounded me enough to realize that I don't have to do big events and big things to make a difference in people's lives. — Justin Gremillion

It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to be there for a child. It takes a village. — Kasey Bradshaw