Carol Johnson has always been passionate about giving back to her community. Having lived in Fargo since the early seventies, she has watched the area grow and thrive and she has played an active role in that progress. As Vice President of Community Relations for Delta Hotels and its property management company, National Hospitality Services, Carol connects the hotel to local needs through nonprofit partnerships, event sponsorships, and volunteer initiatives. For Carol, supporting the community isn’t just good business; it’s a core value.
Why Mentoring Matters
Carol’s journey with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) began shortly after moving to Fargo. Coming from a small town where neighbors naturally looked out for each other’s kids, the concept of formal mentoring was new to her. But the idea of making a difference in a child’s life resonated deeply. She understood how challenging it could be for a single parent to provide constant support, and she wanted to help.
When Carol signed up as a mentor, the program required a one-year commitment, meeting her Little Sister once a week. BBBS provided excellent training and support, which eased her initial nerves. “I was more nervous about meeting my Little Sister than any job interview,” Carol recalls. But from their first meeting, she knew she was on the right path.
Building a Lasting Connection
What started as a one-year commitment turned into a nine-year relationship. BBBS organized regular events for mentors, creating a network of support and shared experiences. Over time, Carol’s role evolved from simply spending time together to guiding her Little Sister through the challenges of adolescence. Their bond was built on trust; her Little Sister knew she could always count on Carol.
Carol beams with pride when she talks about her Little Sister’s accomplishments: attending college, joining the military, and retiring from the Air Force. Today, they still stay connected, and her Little Sister continues to pursue her passion for horses.
The Ripple Effect of Volunteering
Carol’s experience didn’t just impact her Little Sister; it influenced her own family. Her children saw firsthand the importance of caring for others and giving back. For Carol, mentoring was more than volunteering; it was an investment in the future. She encourages others to take that step, reminding us that the time spent scrolling on a phone could instead change a life.
A Call to Action
Carol’s story is a powerful reminder that mentorship matters. Through programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters, volunteers can make a lasting difference not only for the child they mentor but for themselves and their community. Even small acts of kindness and support can create a ripple effect that lasts a lifetime.
If you’ve ever considered volunteering, now is the time. Become a mentor. Change a life. Strengthen your community.
