Oakland County Youth Assistance mentor honored

 Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder recently presented the Governor’s Service Awards to individuals and organizations in conjunction with the 2014 Governor’s Service Awards titled “An Evening with the Stars” held at the Gem Theatre in Detroit on June 30.

The Mentor of the Year award was presented to the family of Don Gellish who had been an Oakland County Youth Assistance mentor since 2009.  This award honors an individual who has made a significant difference in a child’s life through mentoring.  

Don became a mentor to Steven in 2009, having been matched through the Mentors Plus Program of Oakland County.  Up until Don’s death in February of this year, he dedicated more than 25 hours each month helping Steven become a better person.  The two regularly participated in many activities together, including attending Mentors Plus group events, playing chess, visiting museums and science centers, swimming, rock climbing and watching sporting events such as Lions and Pistons games.  

Don served as a liaison between Steven’s school and his grandmother, assisting him with homework and supporting him to get extra help at school when needed.  Not only did Don build a desk for Steven to use for his homework, but more importantly helped build Steven’s self-esteem and confidence by involving him in activities, community service projects and family gatherings.  After Don’s passing, Steven wrote “I would like to take the time to say thank you for being there for me when I needed you most.  I really appreciate everything that you’ve done for me and for being the best mentor ever.”

After the award presentation, Mary Schusterbauer, chief of Oakland County Youth Assistance, commented: “We are thrilled that Mr. Gellish’s selfless dedication to being a good mentor has been recognized and celebrated by Governor Snyder.  The relationship between Don and Steven exemplifies how powerful mentoring can be for both the child and adult involved.”

For information about becoming a mentor and the Oakland County Youth Assistance Mentors Plus program, call 248-858-0041.

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