National Volunteer Week: Mentors Give More Than Just Their Time

Did you know that nationwide there are nearly 13,000 “mentor angels” volunteering their time to provide support and guidance to people diagnosed with cancer and their caregivers? People who receive this support from volunteer mentors have said the value and importance of what they receive cannot be measured.

As we reach the end of National Volunteer Week, we thought it timely to highlight the volunteer opportunities offered through ThriveNV in a partnership with Imerman Angels.

Imerman Angels is a Chicago-based nonprofit that pairs mentors who have survived cancer or who have been or are cancer caregivers with others who have been diagnosed or are caregivers. The idea is to provide support and a shoulder to lean on from someone who’s been there.

In Nevada, ThriveNV works with Imerman Angels to pair Nevadans with mentors both inside and outside of the state. Nevadans can also volunteer to become mentors. Opportunities are available in English or Spanish. In fact, we are looking for many more Spanish-speaking mentors to help others who would feel more comfortable using Spanish.

How does mentoring impact both the mentors and the mentees? Tremendously!

Here are a few of the comments that have been shared by Imerman Angels:

“I was blown away by his generosity, support, and kindness. I asked him how I could ever repay him and he said the best thing to do was to pay it forward by becoming a Mentor and so I did. I hope I can impact someone the way he impacted me!” – John H., Bladder Cancer Survivor

“I used her courage and strength and undaunted attitude as my model. I could not have done it without her! Everyone going through cancer should have someone like that and I am so excited to give back!” – Adrienne D., Rectal Cancer Survivor

“She helped me get through the initial stages of my husband’s diagnosis. She answered all my questions and let me cry through my shock. I was beyond thrilled that I got to meet her and her family in person this last March when she visited CA. She is my rock and my inspiration.” – Corie Y., Caregiver, Glioblastoma

“I am so thankful for my Mentor Angel, Alexis, and Imerman Angels! I just can’t believe this wonderful organization exists and that I was able to be matched with someone with such a similar experience. I hope to be a mentor someday. Each day is a gift for my family.” – Jess S., Caregiver, Bile Duct Cancer

Learn more about becoming a mentor or finding a mentor here.