Mentor in Action: Laenne Thompson (Fairbanks)

Laenne Thompson helped teens launch the Fairbanks Chapter of AYEA in summer 2006. She joined the Northern Alaska Environmental Center in March 2006 as its Youth Education Director.

Why are you a mentor with the AYEA program?
I really enjoy working with teens, especially teens from many different backgrounds. Youth possess a "can do" spirit and passion for their/our future that motivate adults. There was nothing like AYEA in my community when I was younger, and I wish there had been. AYEA connects youth to issues about which I care a lot, and it offers young adults opportunities to develop and practice new skills that will not only help them influence their communities, but support their education and future careers.

What are some of the rewarding or inspiring experiences you've had working with Fairbanks AYEA?
One of the most inspiring moments was seeing the group pull together for recent spring events where they: tabled at our community Earth Day Celebration where they invited young children to design and draw squares for a "renewable energy" themed quilt, presented on global warming, the 3-2-1 campaign, and AYEA to middle and high school students and organized groups of youth to help with our annual community road clean up.

What have been some of your favorite moments or experiences during AYEA events?
White water rafting on the Matanuska River ... watching bio-diesel being made ... youth from all over Alaska sharing things about their communities ... co-facilitating with youth ... seeing youth take interest in social and environmental justice issues ... youth learning about issues and forming opinions that they share with decision-makers.

What advice or encouragement could you give to other adults interested in mentoring teens?
As a mentor, I try to: share control with youth, ask engaging questions that scaffold youth to the next level. Identify a few simple, tangible, short-term goals and have fun along the way and always celebrate successes!