Stanislaus County mentor program receives national honor

A county program that mentors schoolchildren has received national recognition.

The National Association of Counties gave an achievement award to the Stanislaus County Employee Mentor Program. In its 17th year, the program has improved attendance and classroom performance among students who were falling behind.

Employees of the county and partner agencies spend time with the students, most of whom are in third to fifth grades. Volunteers from Modesto City Schools, the county Office of Education, faith-based organizations and service clubs have participated, as well as retirees and college students.

“By engaging our struggling young people early we are so better-equipped to provide them with the level-playing-field opportunity they deserve,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Terry Withrow.

NACo will present the achievement awards at an annual conference and exposition next month in North Carolina. The awards are given in categories such as children and youth, criminal justice, administration and environmental protection.

This story was originally published June 11, 2015 at 10:46 AM with the headline "Stanislaus County mentor program receives national honor."