Established in 2009, the Excellence in Mentoring Awards gives Iowa MENTOR certified programs the opportunity to recognize outstanding long-time youth mentors.
Individuals selected have served as a mentor a minimum of two years and exemplify both the spirit and positive benefits of mentoring. Mentors are selected based on their advocacy and leadership in mentoring, innovation, impact, commitment to their mentee, the match relationship, and the program itself.
Many recipients possess a compelling mentoring story that illustrates the Excellence in Mentoring Award is the most prestigious honor that a youth mentor in Iowa can receive.
Nominations for the Excellence in Mentoring Awards are open year-round.
2025 Excellence in Mentoring Awardees
Erin Blakely, TeamMates of the Clark Community School District
Erin Blakely has been a dedicated mentor with TeamMates of the Clarke Community School District (CSD) since the chapter’s founding, becoming its very first mentor match and setting a strong example of commitment from the start. For three years, she has met consistently with her mentee, A., offering steady encouragement that has supported her growth both in and out of school. Erin has helped A. build confidence and leadership skills, encouraging her participation in school and community events such as Spinner Winner and Winter Wonderland. Teachers consistently note that A. is more focused and engaged academically on days she meets with Erin.
Beyond her one-on-one mentoring, Erin has contributed substantially to the success of TeamMates of the Clarke CSD. As Vice President of the local board, she has helped lead outreach efforts, organized community events, and inspired new mentors to join. Her ability to connect students with meaningful experiences, resources, and supportive adults has strengthened the program and grown its reach. Erin’s creativity, reliability, and advocacy make her a valued leader within TeamMates and a transformative presence in her mentee’s life. Her dedication embodies the spirit of the Excellence in Mentoring Award.
Gavin Gerbracht, Dike-New Hartford Edge Mentoring Program
As one of the earliest mentors in the Dike-New Hartford (DNH) Edge Mentoring Program, student athlete Gavin Gerbracht has demonstrated remarkable dedication, adaptability, and leadership. Gavin joined the program during its pilot year and has remained deeply committed ever since, forming strong mentoring relationships with both of his mentees. Gavin readily takes on challenges, stepping up to mentor a kindergarten student when the program needed a match. Gavin built a meaningful, lasting bond with his first mentee and continues to stay connected even as he mentors a new student, showing consistency and care beyond expectations.
Gavin’s influence extends well beyond his own matches. His example has inspired many of his high school peers to join the mentoring program; the majority of new male mentors specifically cited Gavin as their motivation. He leads in the way he shows up, engages with students, and models what it means to be a positive role model.
Gavin also enriches his mentee’s experience by inviting him to extracurricular events, giving the student opportunities to feel included and connected to the school community. These moments help his mentee build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. Gavin’s consistent presence and intentional support have contributed to meaningful emotional growth for his mentee, including improved self-regulation and a stronger sense of connection at school. His dedication, integrity, and genuine care make him an outstanding example of youth leadership in mentoring.
Ty Putchio, Iowa Jobs for America's Graduates (iJAG) Dubuque Region
For more than five years, Ty Putchio has been an exceptional mentor and leader within the iJAG programs in the Dubuque area. His commitment is visible not only in the guidance he provides to students, but also in the systems he has helped build to strengthen mentoring across the region. Ty plays a key role in recruiting, coordinating, and supporting John Deere volunteers, ensuring that each iJAG classroom is matched with dependable, well-prepared mentors. His leadership has significantly expanded mentor participation and fostered a strong partnership between iJAG and John Deere, creating stability and continuity for students.
Ty is widely recognized for his innovative approach to career-connected learning. He designs hands-on projects such as welding simulations and bike builds that help students develop technical skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. In addition, he has helped create internships, work-based learning opportunities, and apprenticeships that expose students to professional environments and real career pathways. These experiences offer students practical skills and increased confidence as they prepare for future education and employment.
The impact of Ty’s mentorship is reflected in the students he supports. Many have demonstrated stronger communication skills, improved engagement, and a clearer sense of direction for their futures. Ty’s reliability, creativity, and belief in students’ potential make him an invaluable asset to iJAG and the Dubuque community. His leadership continues to expand opportunities for young people and represents the spirit of excellence in mentoring.
Margaret Weirich, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa
Since first becoming a Big Sister in 2023, Margaret Weirich has demonstrated extraordinary dedication, consistency, and advocacy in her match with A. From the beginning, she went above expectations to build a strong, supportive relationship, meeting multiple times each month and ensuring their time together included both fun experiences and opportunities for learning. Early in the match, Margaret recognized that A. faced significant challenges in reading. She took immediate action, attending conferences, participating in IEP meetings, and collaborating with A.’s mother and school to pursue appropriate interventions.
Margaret also coordinated additional support outside of school by involving her educator parents, who provided regular tutoring. She integrated reading practice into everyday outings, whether at the library, during meals, or at community events. These efforts have resulted in measurable academic progress: A. has moved from struggling with basic words to reading independently and with pride.
Beyond academics, Margaret’s support has helped A. grow in self-confidence, communication, and emotional resilience. A. describes feeling safe, happy, and supported by Margaret, and her increased willingness to speak up for herself is a direct result of their relationship. Even A.’s mother considers Margaret “like family,” recognizing her reliability and genuine care.
Margaret’s consistent presence, thoughtful advocacy, and commitment to A.’s growth make her an outstanding mentor who shows the difference one caring adult can make.