Story 44 - Junior Projects: North, Central & South
We have nearly 70 middle school (6th-8th grade) mentor-mentee pairs in NHRI for the 2024-2025 year. These pairs are split between our North, Central, and South Junior Projects. Today we're putting the spotlight on our middle school projects and the incredible work they’re doing!
The Junior Projects were formally created in 2021 when NHRI restructured projects to be split by areas of Lincoln instead of being split by specific schools. This was needed as NHRI continued to expand its reach in the Lincoln community. Initially, the projects were split into Junior Project North/Central and Junior Project South before officially becoming three projects in 2022.
Get to Know JP North
“JP North is a small but mighty group of mentors for middle schoolers that is full of energy and laughter. Every week we ample time getting to connect with one another based on our mentee and mentor relationships and providing advice and snippets of experiences.”
Middle Schools: Dawes, Goodrich, Park, Schoo, and Parochial Schools
Staff Advisor: Kyndal Hudson
Tri-Chairs: Elsa Spencer, Jack Redd, Dustin Andreasen
Just a few of their outstanding one-on-ones
“This week mentee and I got ice cream at her favorite ice cream place, 402. This was our first time meeting just us two so we spent it chit chatting and getting to know each other. We also created a bucket list for us to do in our short year together!”
“Natalie and I went to DQ and got blizzards then we just sat in the car and chatted about school, specifically school lunches! We went through the worksheet about annoying listening habits from class and chatted briefly about intentional listening! We also made a super fun plan for a craft next weekend!”
“Aidrik and I this week finished up our murder mystery game and caught up about the past week. We talked about how communication can be used in multiple different ways in our lives!”
Get to Know JP Central
Middle Schools: Culler, Irving, Lefler, Mickle
Staff Advisor: Carter Goff
Tri-Chairs: Gigi VanVeldhuizen, Lexi Hauxwell, Nikoleta Skoufis
“JP Central stands out with its large attendance, demonstrating a strong community connection and interest. After merging with the old Elementary Project, Central creates an impactful experience for everyone involved. The influx of new mentors brings fresh energy and perspectives, making the program even more dynamic and supportive.”
Just a few of their outstanding one-on-ones
“We met at Maribel’s house and created a bucket list of all the 1x1s we want to do together for this semester. We decorated a sheet of paper with all the activities so we are able to cross them off as we do them. We also talked a lot about what she is involved in and passionate.”
“Last Sunday, Eh La Kho and I went to Adventure Golf Center, where we sort of alternated between playing golf against each other and other holes where we collaborated/worked together. Then, we went to 402 Creamery to discuss how it went and what 1-on-1s we want to do in the future!”
“During our last 1x1 Nora and I wrote down items she wanted to add to her 2024-2025 bucket list, one of them being about reading books. We talked about how we both love to read but never have the time. The conversation inspired me to take her to the library so we could both pick out a book, and over the next few weeks hold each other accountable for finding some time to read throughout the week. Nora was able to find a book she really wanted to read, and after a while we started playing chess at the library (she taught me how to play because I had no idea how the game worked). It was an overall successful 1x1!!!”
Get to Know JP South
Middle Schools: Lux, Pound, Scott, Moore, Norris
Staff Advisor: Charlie Brockmeier
Tri-Chairs: Kara Liebentritt, Emersyn Liljehorn, Bailey Choat
“JP South is more than just a weekly project meeting but rather a gathering of friends who come together to grow and have fun. We break away from the traditional project format with activities like volleyball and retreats which help foster a relaxed and engaging environment. By going in-depth about our experiences with our mentees, we inspire and learn from each other, creating our community.”
Just a few of their outstanding one-on-ones
“Bailey Choat and I did a double mentee date. We took our mentees to Paint Yourself Silly. SO. FUN.”
“My mentee, Easton, and I found that we shared a passion for basketball. We decided to make a trip to the local Scheels and pick each other out a basketball shoes. I looked forward playing in our new shoes and finding ways to connect and help Easton develop and grow as we continue to grow through common interests like basketball.”
“This week for one on one Mackenna volleyball tournament. I sat with her parents and grandparents. The first game was super good and they won. And then they moved on to play another team. They played super well, but sadly didn’t win! I seriously love watching her play because she’s so passionate about it!”