Mentors often transcend the titles of “teacher,” “coach,” and “role model.” While they embody some, if not all, of these attributes, these individuals become friends and key parts of our lives. The guidance mentors offer often gives our lives direction. So today, January 30, we celebrate #ThankYourMentor day by taking a look back on the messages some of our social media followers had for their mentors.
In November, NRPA posed a question on Instagram: “Who is a mentor in your life that you’re thankful for?” The outpouring of responses showcases the importance of a mentor and the mutual respect and admiration between mentors and their mentees.
“Beyond thankful for Jan Peterson Hincape,” said Emma Aumiller from City of Two Rivers Parks and Recreation Department in Wisconsin. “She’s been everything I needed in a mentor and more.”
Others commended their mentors for the lessons they taught, skills they encouraged (such as asking questions) and standards they set by “raising the bar,” as one poster said. In many of the posts, individuals thanked mentors for their support and encouragement.
Andy Peal recognized three of his mentors “for always pushing me to do more, do it the best and lead by example while doing it.” And a few recognized their mentor’s contribution to the park and recreation industry and the community. Karen O’Donnell thanked two of her mentors “for serving as incredibly passionate presidents of our state association board…and demonstrating effective leadership, while making positive change.”
In response, most mentors recognized their mentees as friends in this online exchange. That comes because the mentor-mentee relationship goes both ways. Each puts effort into building the relationship and learns from the other. As the bond strengthens between these individuals, a mutual trust and respect develops. Both mentors and their mentees can benefit from the insights, advice and lessons learned. Check out the Instagram post below:
NRPA recently recognized some of its own mentors. See their stories through #MentoringInParks.
Do you have a mentor that inspires you? Participate in #ThankYourMentor day by using the hashtag on social media, as well as #MentoringInParks and tagging NRPA on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter or Instagram.
Jennifer Nguyen is NRPA’s Communications Manager.
Park Professionals Thank Their Mentors
