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Jim Moretti remembers the day when he was asked to help mentor some Danbury public school students in need. It was a question that he said changed his life.

“It was like a calling for me,” said Jim. “I didn’t think twice about it and signed up that day.”

Twenty years later, Jim is being recognized for his commitment and passion for helping students that are part of the Danbury Schools and Business Collaborative’s (DSABC) mentor program.

“Jim is such an amazing part of this program,” said Executive Director of DSABC Ellen Meyst. “We’re always looking for more positive role models like him to spend that one-on-one time with students. Just an hour a week really makes a difference.”

DSABC partners with local businesses and organizations to find mentors like Jim, who works at a corporate relocation service called Cartus in Danbury. The program has 175 mentors who are matched with students in grades kindergarten through 12th grade. Guidance counselors, teachers and support staff recommend students that need a role model and the mentors are matched based on similar interests and backgrounds.

Since the nonprofit relies on donations to offer these programs, we’re happy to step in and contribute to DSABC’s efforts to stay involved in the school system.

“Empowering students to succeed throughout their time in school is so important to their future success,” said Eversource Community Relations Specialist Samantha Sojka. “We knew we wanted to support DSABC as soon as we heard of the great work they’ve been doing for decades.”

Since he started with the program, Jim has mentored four students. Some of them he worked with from elementary school through high school graduation. He spent the time doing what they wanted, everything from playing chess or basketball, helping with homework or college applications, or even just talking about their day.

“Seeing their reaction when I visit each week and the results of the time I spend with the kids is what has kept me going,” said Jim. “You have to have patience to make a connection and the key is trust. Once you establish that, they become a part of your life and you get vested in them. You really do make a difference.”

Jim will be honored by the nonprofit organization on May 16 at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury.