"I have always know that someday my life would be dedicated to helping kids and that I would either adopt or have foster kids.  Although my dream has been to have a large Ranch Orphanage, that still remains a dream;  I felt the need to do something now.  There are so many children in the world who need parents, especially older kids, and I knew that I didn't need to give birth to a child in order to love it.

When my husband Joel and I first discussed adoption, Joel was not interested but wanted a child of his own.  But when, 3 years ago I was told of a 9 year old boy who was a great kid in a bad situation and needed a home, he said, "let's check into it".  Ten days later we met Zachary.  Joel and I both knew, we would adopt him on the spot.  A week later he was living with us.  Zachary came to us as a foster child and later we became legal guardians.  He has been a wonderful blessing in our lives and we may even adopt another child.

When 2 years ago I got a call asking if I could like to mentor a child for VMC, I said yes.  I accepted 3 brothers but as it ended up, I have 2.  I have been mentor for Nicki and Andy for about 18 months.  I involve them in everything I or we do.  Sometimes it includes horses, other times tennis or swimming.  IN the last year I have added 2 girls to my group.  Christy, a 12 year old, I connected with through the Big Sister program in Lompoc.   She is horse crazy like myself and she goes with me to shows or other horse related events.  Chelsea, also from VMC, is a 6 year old.   She likes tennis and swimming the most.  If there is a special event like the Circus or the rodeo in town, we try to take all of them at the same time.  Otherwise I try to spend time one on one, depending on our schedule.  Even though I am the official Mentor, Joel is often involved, especially when we have all 5 kids.  They are all great kids and it is very rewarding to be an influence in their lives.  I highly recommend becoming a mentor."

If you would like to help a child or youth through difficult times, please call Lola @ 805-688-5147 or John @ 805-688-2034.  They work with Valley Community Mentoring, Santa Ynez Valley Presbyterian Church, 1825 Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang, CA 93463.