Mentoring: A Running Start 2008

Welcome mentor teams!

Program Description

Mentoring: A Running Start provides an opportunity for youth to train for a 5K race to learn lessons in teamwork, goal setting and accomplishment. Participants in the running program will train for the noncompetitive 5K that is a part of the Detroit Free Press/Flagstar Marathon festivities in October.

The program aims to instill a life-long love for running and physical fitness in Michigan youth and adults. Knowledge and motivation are provided to reach the goal of running a 5K. After completion of the program, participants are encouraged to continue running and setting new physical activity goals.

Mentor Teams in Detroit October 18-19

Governor's Residence Day August 19

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

Meet Team Hoogerwerf/Castle


Lisa Hoogerwerf, mentor from Holland, and Desiree Castle, mentee from Holland

Lisa is a graduate of Hope College and worked as a correctional nurse before becoming an AmeriCorps volunteer. She currently works with Heights of Hope in community development. She volunteers for neighborhood events, tutoring programs and Blacktop, her church’s summer day camp. Lisa is also involved with Miles for Mentoring. She enjoys photography, graphic design, jewelry making, scrapbooking and hanging out with kids in her neighborhood. Lisa and Desiree have known each other for more than a year, but were only recently matched. They both love art and enjoy trips to Paint-a-Pot. They also practice photography, watch movies, swim, and chat. Desiree attends Holland High School and is involved in volleyball, track and softball. She also volunteers with Lisa at Blacktop. Desiree has a special interest in animals (especially dogs), the beach and art. Desiree and Lisa share a favorite memory of ice skating together. Lisa says “Desiree is incredibly smart, talented and fun. She is a very strong young woman with so much potential.” Lisa looks forward to getting in shape with Desiree by her side so they can encourage each other to be healthy. Desiree thinks Lisa has an awesome personality and is glad to have the opportunity to spend more time with her.

Meet Team Fisher/Baker



Matika Fisher, mentor from Flint, and Tameria Baker, mentee from Flint

Matika is a graduate of the University of Michigan Flint where she studied criminal justice. She has been a police officer for 15 years, a DARE instructor for eight years, and currently works for the Genesee County Sheriff’s Office. Matika became an advocate for physical activity in her community by initiating a Police Athletic League, and the Flint Heat Track Club which she coaches with her husband. She is also the number one fan for her two sons who are active in football, basketball and track. Matika recently met Tameria through the Flint Heat Track Club. Tameria attends Pierce School in Flint and is involved in basketball and swimming. She enjoys shopping, traveling and running. Together Tameria and Matika go shopping, run and participate in community events. Matika appreciates having “girl time” with Tameria, as she is outnumbered at home. Matika looks forward to getting back into shape and motivating others to do the same.