Lake County >> Dennis Lackey first noticed the ad in the Penny Saver while enjoying his morning coffee. After working in construction for 30 years, he was ready to kick back and not answer to an early morning alarm clock. However retirement turned out to be quite the contrary after he became a mentor for the California Mentor”s Family Home Agency, which is recruiting mentors in Lake and Mendocino counties.
It”s because of Lackey”s own experience with a learning disability that he has a heart for helping others, according to Annie Barnes, program director. He recalls a teacher who helped him overcome his challenges in school, nurturing his strength in math and helping him enjoy school and succeed. When he saw the Penny Saver ad with the header, “Become a Mentor host home provider to an Adult with Disabilities,” he realized this was his chance to give back.
After Lackey”s first call to California Mentor”s Family Home Agency office, he decided to apply. Three months later, after a comprehensive screening and matching process, which considers the interests, skills and personalities of individuals and mentors in order to create that “perfect match,” Mark Smith, a man with a strong handshake and gentle demeanor, moved into Lackey”s home. They quickly bonded like two brothers.
These days, Lackey is feeling the positive effects of being active and helping others, Barnes stated. His doctor asked him what caused such improvement in his mental, emotional and physical health. Lackey told him, “I”m a mentor now.”
When asked by family and friends what it has meant to open his home and life to Smith, he has a ready answer. “Helping others helps you.”
For more information, call 263-5875 and ask about eligibility and tax-free stipends for mentors.
