Volunteer Highlight — Corinne Cossette
Corinne with her girls at the Gala!
Meet Corinne Cossette
BIO Girls Volunteer Mentor at Fargo Olivet Lutheran (and past participant!)
As teenagers grow busier with age, it means even more when someone chooses to give back. There’s nothing more special than a former BIO Girls participant who continues the ripple effect that began within her. Meet Corinne Cossette, past participant and now a mentor at Fargo’s Olivet Lutheran..
“I volunteer with BIO Girls because I know the importance of the mentor/participant relationship, because I had such good relationships with my mentors when I was a BIO Girl. The BIO Girls lessons also help me as a teenager and still apply to my life, as great reminders on self love and appreciating the small things.”
One of Corinne’s favorite parts of the program is service project week. Fargo Olivet chooses to create birthday bags for those who may not have the resources to celebrate.
“At Olivet as a participant and a mentor I have loved making birthday bags. It's a fun activity and so important to teach the girls that not everyone has access to fun things, even on their birthday. You can see the realization and understanding and its awesome to see them putting care and effort into birthday cards they make, or try to match the frosting and the color of the bags.”
Corinne has developed really special relationships with her small group. They not only get support from her but they also had the opportunity to lift Corinne up last fall.
“The girls always say their favorite thing about BIO Girls is their mentor, but the girls are also my favorite part. This last fall I got the chance to speak at the gala, and my girls came on stage and surprised me, and there I was crying in front of everyone. Getting to see them grow and become more comfortable and confident at BIO Girls is the best experience.”
Even as a mentor, Corinne takes the reminder of the lessons with her as she grows into a young adult.
“My favorite mantra is Perfect isn't Possible. This lesson is so important for young girls and is something I struggle with myself. It's such an important reminder for me, that I don't have to do it all and that the pressure I put on myself doesn't come from the people around me. A lot of times young people, especially girls, tie their worth in the things they are in or achieve.”
Corinne, we are so very lucky to be a part of BIO Girls with you. It’s a joy to watch you continue to grow and thrive. We can’t thank you enough for the time and energy you give to your program and how you are truly BIO - beautiful, inside & out in all that you do. Thank you!!
How can I get involved?
We have a variety of ways for people to get involved with BIO Girls. We can’t wait to connect with you and see where we can make an impact in your community together!