mentoring program

heytootz · Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 11:10 am Post subject: mentoring program

I joined SIS in May, have attended 3 monthly meetings and found the women I met there open, welcoming and friendly and still I was too intimidated to go on a ride. New or returnees to cycling, new especially to long rides, new to all the people w/ whom you'll be riding is pretty overwhelming.

I'm going to BBBBQ!! My second ride, first w/ the group and the reason I decided this was the ride and this was the time was largely due to Alice McGregor. She stayed in touch and encouraged me to go on a ride w/ her. We chose a Saturday morning and rode for appx. 2 hrs (please don't ask where, I just followed but we did stop at a lake for a bit), went to a bike shop and then home. She was considerate of my desire to stay at around 65 mph and kept an eye on her mirrors. Forgot to say that prior to beginning she went over information about safely riding in pairs or groups.

I really enjoyed it. I felt safe on the road and w/ Alice. I never felt I was "holding her back" so she couldn't enjoy the ride, I never felt condescended to .... it was great.

Next we decided to drive to Locust Grove for breakfast. I felt so comfortable I brought my 13 yo dtr. It was her first time on the highway and she was brave to do it. We had a great time!!

Then Alice invited me to attend the BBBBQ and even though an overnighter is the next intimidating step, the foundation has been laid and I really wanted to go even though I was also anxious.

Being new I don't have all the equipment and gear (including something to pack my stuff in that will go on a bike) and I can't run out and purchase it all. Alice, before anything else practically, offered to loan me what she had that I would need. I'm beginning to pack (It's Sunday, we're leaving Friday!!!) and, although I know the anxiety will be wi/ me until I've successfully conquered this next step I'm also really really excited about finally joining in w/ the group.

All this to suggest we take a look at an official mentoring program for new members, especially those new to riding. If not for having someone put in the time and effort to form a friendship and begin in little steps I know I wouldn't be in Fayettevill this weekend.

Just a suggestion for your consideration,

thanks and blessings to you all

Mary-Rhea

Wachee · Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 12:38 pm Post subject:

That is awesome Mary! Alice is a really special lady and from what I have seen puts forth that extra effort.

I think an "official" mentor program would be a good idea. In the Navy what they would do is take volunteer for mentors and assign them as needed... every new arrival would get a mentor... it was an instant friend/guide.
_________________
“We either make ourselves happy or miserable. The amount of work is the same.” – Carlos Castaneda

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is.” – Albert Einstein

sparky · Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 2:46 pm Post subject: Mentoring Program

AN OFFICIAL Mentoring Program is a WONDERFUL idea. On the web site we talk about mentoring with new members. Mentoring for new riders, as we are doing it at this time, is working. We ask for volunteers when needed. At this point we have not had to ASSIGN memebers to help. The membership has always stepped forward and taken care of the situation on an as need basis. That is what makes this organization unique, the membership ALWAYS takes care of what ever is needed. We do not have an " OFFICAL PROGRAM" but we do have mentoring available for anyone in need of help whether it be out riding the bike or providing information on the web site. SIS members all across the nation are helping each other. There is a difference between men and women. Women ask for help and men will not ask for help. As long as our new riders continue to ASK for help it will be provided. We are at a point with the growth of the organization it is felt we need to build in other areas. Be able to obtain MORE benefits for the membership. Some where down the road I am sure an Offical Mentoring Program will be put in place.

As for MS. Alice, she always steps forward for what ever the organization or members needs. Alice has provided much more than you will ever know to SIS and it is greatly apprciated.

We THANK YOU for your idea. Ideas from the members is vital for continued growth within SIS. As they say"Keep Those Cards and Letters Coming".

Sparky

PS Thanks Alice
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Thank You

silversis · Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 4:22 pm Post subject: Mentoring

heytootz,

Be assured that we here in Macon, Ga heard you loud and clear.
That is a wonderful write-up and Alice I also would like to thank you
for your kindness to a new Sister.
This is what SIS is all about.
_________________
silversis

lespring · Posted: Sun Sep 30, 2007 10:02 pm Post subject:

I've been thinking about this for awhile myself. Yes, this was my first season at the handlebars, but I've been a biker all my life.

A month ago when I sold my other bike, the woman I sold it to had just gotten her lisence earlier this spring. It had been 3 months and she still hadn't gone on highways yet. She didn't have anyone to guide her. Thinking back to the way my husband helped me learn each new skill made me want to help other women who may not be comfortable going out those first few times with a man, even if it's their husband!

Now here I am, with a 6,000 miles under my belt this summer. I take my bike anywhere I can, and I'm proud of me. (remember way back to when I was afraid to go down our DRIVEWAY?) I'd love to share it with someone else.
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~Leah~
www.gardenofeagan.blogspot.com

heytootz · Posted: Mon Oct 01, 2007 8:11 am Post subject:

Dear Leah,

Thanks so much for your input. That is exactly how I'm feeling. Because someone did it / is doing it for me I want to do it for others. As I gain experience and confidence I can do this to a greater extent.

As wonderful as husbands can be we all know men and women think in very different ways. I know there are always exceptions but in most cases I think women learn quicker, easier and more comfortably from/with women.

I know our SIS are available to each other when someone has questions or needs but a lot of people wouldn't feel comfortable doing the reaching out. I didn't. Not because the ladies I met were not friendly and open. I didn't know them. I didn't know the level of "busy ness" in their lives... etc..
I believe it needs to be the established members who make the initial personal contacts. Get to know them a little and allow them to know us.. then they will feel more comfortable putting themselves in our care which is exactly what they are doing and you MUST have at least a little relationship developed w/ a person before you'll be willing to do that.

My biggest concern about leaving it to the group in general is that everyone may think someone else is doing it and the person is missed. I'm hoping that if we organize it a little we will be successful in increasing the participation in group events. And of coarse increasing everyones enjoyment of riding.

Blessings!!
Mary-Rhea