September Spotlight 2024

This month’s student-mentor spotlight is on mentor Linda Copeland and her mentee, Nevaeh Jones. The two have been matched since October 2021.

Linda Copeland, Mentor

What do you consider to be your hometown? How long have you lived in Fernandina Beach?

I’ve lived in so many places that I’ve learned that “hometown” means wherever I’m at. For the past several years that means my hometown is on Amelia Island. I moved to Nassau County full time just as the pandemic shut things down. 

What made you decide to mentor with Take Stock?

A friend told me about Take Stock and their mission intrigued me enough to find out more. I was interested in TSIC because I can’t think of anything more meaningful than making a positive difference in the life of a young person. I had hoped to be a mentor closer to home, but when I heard that Nevaeh needed a mentor in Hilliard and that the fit seemed right, I said YES! 

How many students have you mentored?
She’s the first young person I’ve mentored, and we both find it hard to believe that she’s graduating soon! The years have gone by so quickly, one weekly visit at a time. I started mentoring her 3 years ago. 

What have you gained from mentoring Zaylie?

She’s the first young person I’ve mentored, and we both find it hard to believe that she’s graduating soon! The years have gone by so quickly, one weekly visit at a time. I started mentoring her 3 years ago. 

Nevaeh Jones Hilliard Middle Senior High School

Why did you want to apply for Take Stock?

I applied to Take Stock because it was a great opportunity to get into the community and also provide for my future in college without the hardships and stress.

What have you learned from your relationship with your mentor, Debbie?

I have learned so many great things from Ms. Linda but one thing that has really stuck with me is to do what I believe will make me happy and to not depend on what others may say or think. Ms. Linda has been such an amazing help for me throughout my high school experience; between school work and home life, she quickly became someone I know I can come to about anything.

What is your favorite memory from TSIC?

My favorite memory from TSIC is definitely the pickleball games.

What are your plans after you graduate high school and TSIC?
My plan for after high school is to attend the radiology program at FSCJ and become an x-ray technician.