The Mentoring Project of the Upper Valley has hired a Thetford Elementary School teacher as program director to further its mission of connecting young people with adult mentors.
Melissa “Mel” Arnesen-Trunzo joins the organization with a goal to listen and learn from all community members involved in the program, she said, adding that meaningful relationships can be built when a caring adult decides to show up and support young people.
“Sometimes it is taking a walk, working on a project together, learning a new skill, playing a game, or simply having someone who is genuinely happy to spend time with you,” Arnesen-Trunzo said in a Friday comment.
The day-to-day work of the role includes being available as a point of contact for mentors, managing referrals, supporting the board, collecting data for grants and connecting with community partners, according to the nonprofit’s president, Cate Beaton.
“We believe that making sure we have a village to support kids is what makes us successful,” Beaton said Thursday by phone.
Arnesen-Trunzo’s time will fluctuate between 10 and 20 hours per week, though Beaton said they’re working to make it a full-time position. The pay range for the role is between $26 and $38 per hour, she said.
Anne Hatch, the previous program director, has decided to step down.
“We wish her all the best as she begins her next chapter, and we are excited to build on the strong foundation she has helped create,” Beaton said in a news release.
Arnesen-Trunzo stood out among the 15 applicants screened based on their backgrounds and three finalists interviewed, according to Beaton.
At Rivendell Academy, Arnesen-Trunzo worked as a learning coach and long-term substitute. She also established the Orford RePair Café to fix household items and reduce waste, and helped organize a Mandarin Language Café in Norwich for children and adults.
Arnesen-Trunzo will lead The Mentoring Project’s Teen Apprenticeship Program, following her experience through the Vermont Works for Women’s Trailblazers program, according to a news release.
Beaton described Arnesen-Trunzo as “highly creative” and a “natural fit” for the role.
“My hope is that we can grow the program in a thoughtful and supportive way, reaching more young people while also strengthening the sense of connection and community throughout the Upper Valley,” said Arnesen-Trunzo.
Those interested in volunteering with the Mentoring Project can fill out the form available at mentoringprojectuv.org.
