Mentor Profiles

Neil Buchanan, Johnson Bank

Neil Buchanan has been a KABA Mentor for the previous six years and currently mentors a fifth grade boy at Frank Elementary.

His own experience with a childhood mentor is what prompted him to become one himself. He credits his mentor with teaching him social skills and instilling confidence at a challenging point in his life. Having experienced the benefits a mentor had on his own life has given him a perspective on the impact he's making on others. He feels the rewards are priceless.

He would like to tell all mentors that you make a difference! Even when you think your student is shutting you out – they are listening. You are their role model, a listening ear, an aid, and a friend.

Neil grew up and still lives in Union Grove. He is married to Amy, and they have a 16-month-old little boy.

Ann Kelley, Chrysler LLC

Ann Kelly has been a KABA mentor since the program's inception 11 years ago. When Ann was given her first child to mentor, she says she was a little nervous, even though she had three children of her own. "But the moment I met this young boy and saw the biggest smile on his face, and the sparkle in his eyes, I was hooked. All the children that I have mentored, every single one of them, have made a dramatic and everlasting impact in my life."

Ann has mentored for the past six years at Durkee Elementary. Durkee's principal, Dan Weyrauch, had this to say about Ann: "She always finds that special way to ‘reach' the students she supports.  Ann's positivity is pervasive, and her kindness is contagious.  She is simply a nice person to be around."

Anglea Preston

Angela Preston is a shining example of a KABA Mentor.  As a mother of eleven children and grandparent of fifteen, she was approached in 2003 by Charlie Talbert, long-time KABA mentor, and asked if she was interested in the program.  She became a mentor at Durkee Elementary shortly thereafter.  Angela has been a Kenosha resident for twenty-one years and is employed by United Hospital Systems.

Angela has had the privilege of mentoring two young girls through the program.  She has focused primarily on encouraging her mentee, as well as tutoring in academics and social graces.  Some special touches she adds to her time spent mentoring are gifts of a new pencil and eraser each week, unique crafts, and games such as Multiplication UNO.  She makes a clear effort to impact her student's entire class, hand-making plaques for graduations and treats for holidays.

Angela's word of advice to any new mentor is simply to “be there for the kids and encourage them!”  She also recommends sharing ideas and activities with any friends or colleagues who are fellow KABA mentors.  Thank you for your dedication, Angela!

Bill Siel, Kenosha News

Kenosha News photographer Bill Siel has been a KABA mentor since 2000.  He was first introduced to the program by his wife, Susan, who is an educator in the Kenosha Unified School District.  Several of his co-workers are also mentors.  He has been involved in the lives of three boys through the mentor program and is passionate about lending his support to the educational system in our community and making a difference in any way he can.  Bill is now beginning his eighth year as a KABA mentor with a 5th grade boy at Southport Elementary.

Bill recognizes the significance of consistency in his mentees' lives.  “The most important thing is to be reliable.  Always keep your appointed time to the best of your ability because these kids need an extra person in their lives that they can count on.  This consistency opens all the right doors.”  Bill's impact on each child's life has been apparent.  As his weekly visits come and go, he strives to make them fun and looks forward to seeing his student's growth through the process.

Bill has lived in Kenosha since 1983 and has two teenage children.  When asked about his eight years of mentoring, Mr. Siel comments, “When you think about it, it's hard to find a reason to stop.”