A new initiative is underway to honor the unsung heroes who shape the lives of students and leave an indelible mark on the community . The Mentors Matter giving campaign , led by The Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools , is not just a tribute to mentors but a rallying call for gratitude and support .
What is Mentors Matter ?
Mentors come in various forms : teachers , staff members , coaches and any dedicated individual within the Fresno Unified family . The Mentors Matter initiative is an opportunity to express appreciation for someone who has been a mentor by donating to The Foundation for Fresno Unified Schools in honor of the mentor . This is a way to recognize those who have made a lasting impact and give back to the schools and departments where these mentors have been able to thrive and influence others .
How It Works : Pin . Wear . Repeat .
• After a donor has made their contribution in honor of their mentor , the mentor is recognized with a certificate with a heartfelt message .
• The mentor will designate the school or department to benefit from the donation .
• With a donation of $ 100 or more , a mentor is honored with an exclusive Mentors Matter pin — a visible testament to their influence in Fresno Unified .
Top : Kings Canyon Middle School Principal Landon Ailanjian
Middle : Edith Navarro , assistant superintendent in Human Resources
Bottom : Mercedes Murray , paraeducator at Rata High School
The Movement Begins : Meet the First Honorees
The Foundation for Fresno Unified School is thrilled to highlight the first three recipients of the Mentors Matter award .
• Principal of Kings Canyon Middle School Landon Ailanjian : Learning that he was among the first honorees of the Mentors Matter campaign , Ailanjian was thrilled , especially knowing that donations circle back to benefit his school directly . For the announcement , Ailanjian was cheered on by his office staff and the vice principal . When asked what the recognition meant to him , he simply stated , " Everything ."
• Assistant superintendent of Human Resources Edith Navarro : Navarro reflected on being recognized through the Mentors Matter campaign : “ It ' s humbling to know that somebody recognized me ; that I mentored them or their children , and they noticed . You don ' t do the work for people to notice or receive recognition . You do it because it is the right thing .” Navarro ’ s words resonate with the selfless nature of mentorship , where the joy comes not from the spotlight but from the positive influence on others .
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