This month, we are excited to highlight Moon Mountain District AVA for their exceptional support of our programs. It takes a diverse array of community contributions to power our initiatives—from auction donations and event speaking opportunities to financial contributions and promotional support through local businesses. We are deeply grateful for every aspect of this support. Moon Mountain District AVA is stepping up as a shining example of community partnership. They are hosting the “Reach for the Moon!” Master Class & Grand Tasting event on June 1st, featuring notable wine critic Anto ..read more

Mentees Alex and Jaymee Shine Light on Breast Cancer Awareness Mentees Alex and Jaymee, participated in this year’s Trashion Fashion Sonoma event for a cause deeply personal to them, crafting a project that not only showcases their creativity but also their commitment to making a meaningful difference. In a touching tribute, this year’s costume is dedicated to Maureen Crumly, the Mentor Facilitator at Sassarini Elementary, who is currently undergoing breast cancer treatment. Crafted by Alex and modeled by Jaymee, the costume symbolizes their admiration and gratitude toward Crumly, who has bee ..read more

This Earth Day, at the Mentoring Alliance, we’re reflecting on how our natural environment isn’t just a backdrop for activities, but a central character in the stories we create together. Our planned activities, whether it’s a day at the beach, a hike in the picturesque trails of Sugarloaf, or putting together pollinator packets (get yours from local Sonoma merchants), are more than just tasks; they’re catalysts for forging enduring bonds between mentors and mentees. A shining example of these bonds is the journey of Itzel, who transformed from a mentee to a mentor of a student at Prestwood ..read more

Meet Itzel. Itzel’s mentorship journey began in the vibrant halls of her first-grade classroom, a journey marked by profound connections and the transformative power of guidance and support. Her path took a pivotal turn with the loss of her first mentor, leading to a life-changing relationship in fourth grade with her mentor, Connie. This relationship opened Itzel’s eyes to the wonders of the natural world, an experience that reshaped her perspective and set her on a path of discovery and passion for the outdoors. “I remember my first hike with Connie. I was miserable at first; it was hot ..read more

The Transformative Power of Mentorship: Stories from Sonoma's Mentoring Alliance In the heart of Sonoma, at the Fairmont Mission Inn, new mentors gathered for the Alumni Mentee Panel. It was a convergence of past, present, and future—where stories of transformation, hope, and the profound impact of mentorship were shared. This event, shone a light on the lives touched by the Mentoring Alliance, emphasizing not just the value of the mentor-mentee relationship but its lasting legacy. Four alumni from the program, now all young adults, took the stage to recount their journeys and to share how ..read more

Our program is a beacon of hope and support for its youth, thanks to the diverse contributions of our community members. One such individual is Daniel Casabonne, a successful realtor whose unique approach to philanthropy is making a significant impact to us – and to all of the kids who rely on our program. Daniel’s enthusiasm for real estate transcends mere property ownership; it embodies a world of potential. Demonstrating this, he generously donates the use of his own luxurious properties for our mentoring program’s alliance auctions. These aren’t just ordinary homes; they are Daniel’s pers ..read more

Sharon’s decision to become a mentor in Sonoma, even while working and traveling for her job, reflects her deep commitment to making a positive impact on her community. Her initial perception that mentoring might only be possible after retirement changed when she received the simple but powerful advice: “It’s an hour a week.” This advice encouraged her to take the leap and start mentoring Leo, a 5th-grade student at Flowery Elementary.     Despite her work-related travels, Sharon’s dedication to her mentoring relationship with Leo was unwavering. Leo’s desire to know when she would ..read more

In the world of our online auctions, there are always names that are familiar, names of unwavering supporters who have been with us through thick and thin. These are the names that warm our hearts to see. Yet, in 2021, a new name surfaced – one that was both new and strangely familiar.   Susie Gallo, our ED and our former program director, Tina Baldry, were intrigued by this name: Jeremy Swanton. Could it be, they wondered? Was Jeremy Swanton the same individual who had once been a part of our mentoring program, matched back in 1999 and who graduated in 2007?   Curiosity led them to ..read more

The Transformative Power of Donations The transformative power of donations cannot be underestimated in making the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance possible. Events such as the upcoming Summer Soirée are pivotal in funding these programs, enabling countless mentor-mentee matches like Sue and Rodrigo’s to flourish.  This is our WHY. Ten years ago, Sue arrived in Sonoma, a newcomer to the community with hopes of building a life for herself. Little did she know that a 6-year-old first-grader named Rodrigo would change her life in the most profound way. Through the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Al ..read more

We invite you to be part of something truly special at La Veranda Sonoma’s eagerly anticipated Summer Soirée on August 19th. Your attendance would mean the world to us. At the heart of our gathering lies a profound purpose – to raise funds for the Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance. Last year alone we had 300 mentors and mentee matches. And behind each successful match, dedicated school site coordinators work tirelessly, fostering magical bonds and creating a safe haven for weekly mentor-mentee activities. These programs extend beyond the classroom, providing opportunit ..read more