Yesterday, I spent a wonderful afternoon with Amy, my friend and mentee. With a common goal in mind (to work on our “Eye on Melrose” photography project), we met after school to brainstorm and strategize. Armed with a snack from Dunkin Donuts, and our disposable camera, we began our trek around the city.

I thought I would remember what it was like to be a seventh-grader, and as I’ve interacted with our mentees over the past several weeks, I’ve recalled some of those memories.  But it’s different for kids today.  It’s harder.

By E. Diane White

Lose weight, get a new job, pay off the bills.. How many times, year after year, do we make the same list of resolutions? “This year will be different!" we say. But if you are like most people, as the weeks go on it’s difficult to keep those promises to yourself.

As part of the initial training for the Melrose CARES Community Mentoring Program, volunteers are asked to reflect on someone in their lives (besides a parent) who made a significant positive impact when they were growing up. Participants are then asked to describe the qualities of that relationship. Responses often include words like "unconditional support," "guidance," "made me feel special" or "saw something in me I didn’t see in myself." Some of these relationships were life-changing, or even life-saving.

Where is your favorite view of nature in Melrose? What about a place that makes you feel proud of your community? Is there a place or object you would like to learn more about in the city?