topside
Volume 115, Issue 1
Page 4
From the Desk of the Commodore, continued
The purpose of this story is to relay how much of a difference that having a good mentor can make on the
experience of a new, impressionable member. Taking a new member under wing and providing the guidance and
direction for new members can go a long way in contributing to the success that a young member can experience
as part of our organization. Leading members through the myriad of programs and possibilities available for
members and then helping them to achieve success attaining qualification serves to solidify the connection
between members and the institution. A good mentor can truly make all of the difference in whether a member
stays with the Auxiliary and becomes a contributing member or that person loses interest and falls into the
background.
With the District wide emphasis on recruiting and bringing new members into the Auxiliary, it is imperative that
we simultaneously encourage and maintain a strong mentorship program. Having members willing to befriend,
guide, and encourage new members will solidify the attachment of new members to the Auxiliary. Research in
finding determining factors that keeps members happy and engaged speaks to the value of positive interactions
among members creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
I would strongly encourage every member to become a mentor and friend to fellow members both new and
experienced. Teaching and guiding new members provides advantages to both mentor and mentee. It strengthens
the commitment to core values and the four cornerstones of our organization. Of all the activities that a member
can engage in, becoming a mentor is among the most valuable and beneficial for everyone and I hope this process
will continue to be a strength upon which we will always rely.
COMO Barry Kyper
Correction:
The involuntary disenrollment and subsequent court decisions involving former Auxiliarist Christopher J. Verbil
reported in the Fall edition (Volume 144 Issue 2) of Topside did not involve allegations of sexual harassment.