It's all about 'hometown'

(Cathy Ostrum of Alexandria, Va., is a Cameron County native who first unveiled Hometown Mentors Organization in 2006. The idea is starting to gain some momentum this year.)

Who loves Cameron County more than those who call it home today?

Answer: Those who called it home yesterday. We have a very special place in our heart for our hometown.

While we were planning for a Class of 1971 reunion in 2006, the idea was hatched for Hometown Mentors Organization (HMO). It's an organization that I know will help Cameron County and it's about to come alive.

Our mission: to help Cameron County High School students get a head start on their chosen career path. We accomplish this by bringing high school alumni and current students together.

Students are able to network with career-experienced alumni who motivate the teens and help them set attainable goals.

The crux of the plan is to use the Internet to bring our old friends and relatives back to Cameron County. Learn more at hometownmentors. org.

Emporium is more than just any rural community. It is where my heart will always be. Cameron County is the most beautiful place on the face of this earth and it is my hometown.

When I was enjoying that 2006 class reunion, I saw so many smiles and heard so many positive things.

The potential of HMO is enormous. In addition to helping to mentor the high school students, HMO might, for example, sponsor some fund-raisers and solicit some former residents to donate money to support the school district.

During the past week, I've talked with attorney Paul Malizia, who is helping us to get a non-profit status. John Glasl and Judd Schager have agreed to take care of the CPA work. Others have volunteered time to help with the planning. We'll also be making contacts to seek government funding.

We will be using the Internet in place of a newsletter as a fast and global way of reaching out to former residents. Our planning meetings will be held via conference phone calls.

So, if you are interested or know of someone anywhere in the world who wants to be a part of HMO, please send me an e-mail at cjostrum@hotmail.com.