SERVE
"Mentors help improve a young person's self-esteem, keep students in school and set career goals. You not only enrich the life of a child - you enrich yours as well." - Meninak Kerry Varkonda
Mentoring
Meninaks are actively involved in mentoring dozens of area youth through partnerships with Take Stock in Children, Junior Achievement, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Florida, and Boy Scouts of America. The one-on-one interaction between mentor and mentee results in a very rewarding experience for all, and in many cases, results in long-lasting relationships beyond the grade school years; bonds that can take on a life of their own.
Make an Impact Become a Mentor
· Mentors help improve a young person’s self-esteem
· Mentors help keep students in school
· Mentors help young people set career goals
Mentoring Testimonials
More than 40 Meninak mentors have served with more than ten partner organizations, and they each have their own unique and inspiring stories.
Meninak Bunky Johnson has mentored two “Little Brothers” (one also through Take Stock.) Bunky said: “I am a mentor for the same reason I am a Meninak and that is to bring help where little or none is available. As a mentor, I feel even better about the fact I can take direct, positive action to live the Meninak Credo on a one-to- one level.” Bunky’ second mentee, Isaac Ricks won a 2017 Meninak Scholarship to attend the University of Florida, to study engineering and play on the UF football team. Later, Isaac reciprocated by nominating Bunky to receive the Duval County “Big Brother of the Year” award for 2017.
After a slow start mentoring a shy 10th grader, Kerry Varkonda found a way to connect and greatly improve his mentee’s self-confidence and interpersonal skills. This is a common problem with today’s tech-savvy youth. Kerry says: “As adults, we underestimate just how much the simple lessons of life we have learned can help another person – especially a young person. All the social media “connections” available will never replace a smile, a handshake, a hug and eye contact with another person – the real connections.” Kerry’s mentee went on to be a very successful UNF student.
Steve Shewbrooks believes that mentoring matters and said, “It has been proven that well-run mentoring programs pay big dividends. In 2017 the Duval County high school graduation rate was 80%. Even though the Take Stock in Children mentoring program is made up of only very low income and ‘at risk’ students, 95% of Take Stock high school seniors graduate on time and more than 92% enrolled in post-secondary education within three months of high school graduation.” Of the three high school students Steve mentored, one went on to Florida State University, another to the University of North Florida, and the third joined the U.S. Marines Corps. Clearly, mentoring works!
Meninak Ocean Marathon Swim
A test of endurance since 1933
For 90 years, Meninak has honored the volunteer lifeguards who protect our beaches. The 3.5-mile marathon swim begins at Ponte Vedra Inn and ends at the Lifeguard Station, averaging 40 participants each year. Meninak volunteers ensure this remains the premier Life Saving Corps event.
Meninak provides trophies, t-shirts, refreshments, and support, with the event chair leading a prayer and the Club President welcoming each finisher. Volunteers set up tents, chairs, and banners. Participation is limited to current and past Corps members, with all new recruits required to complete the swim in their first year.
Not even COVID-19 halted the 2020 event. One retired Surfman, Dr. Jeff Goldstein, swam 503 laps in his condo pool to keep the tradition alive. His dedication reflects the honor of the Life Saving Corps and Meninak’s enduring commitment to community.
Such dedication is a testament to the honor of the Life Saving Corps – and with the Marathon Ocean Swim’s 90th consecutive year, a testament to Meninak’s love and commitment to our community.
Meninak & the Salvation Army
Sharing the spirit to serve the needs of others
Meninak has partnered with the Salvation Army for decades, united by a shared mission to support disadvantaged children and provide aid where it's needed most. The Salvation Army impacts one in eight Northeast Florida residents annually.
For years, Meninak hosted a Toy Ball, where members donated toys for distribution. Today, this tradition continues at the annual Christmas luncheon, supporting the Salvation Army’s Angel Tree Project.
From the Dime Board to the Red Kettle Campaign, Meninaks have long supported the cause—ringing bells, collecting donations, and giving back. Recently, members have dedicated an entire day to bell-ringing at multiple Duval County locations.
Since the early 2000s, Meninak has led volunteer efforts for the Northeast Florida Red Kettle Campaign, organizing over 50 volunteers each year to count funds in Duval and Nassau counties. These funds directly support local Salvation Army programs.
Meninak also played a key role in the Salvation Army’s first telethon in 2020, helping raise nearly $100,000 to offset Red Kettle challenges during the pandemic. Hosted by CBS47 and FOX30 at TIAA Bank Field, the telethon is now an annual event that Meninak proudly supports.
Join Us in Service – Become a Mentor Today!
Your involvement can inspire the next generation of leaders. Contact us today to learn more about how you can contribute to our mentoring program and help shape a brighter future for our youth..