Military Youth Mentoring Project

Active duty soldiers and Illinois youth children's group find penpals in each other.

Project Next Generation, formed by Illinois Secretary of State and State Librarian, Jesse White, consists of middle school aged children. The program teaches the children vital computer skills. The group is taught, with the assistance of peer mentors and public librarians, everything from how to make a PowerPoint presentation to e mailing. They also learn how to use the newest computer technology such as scanners, wireless keyboards, and various software.

The program, now in its third year of operation, enables the participants to acquire valuable computer knowledge for future jobs. In the process raising the child's self esteem, and help them reach new learning potential.

In their newest project, the children of Project Next Generation would like to interact with service members and their spouses through MilitaryMommy Online over an eleven-week period. The military-youth project board is featured in the MilitaryMommy community penpals section.

Please be sure to check out "Project Next Generation PenPals" for your opportunity to interact with these amazing children.