We believe everyone grows through new experiences. This is why we encourage mentors to engage with their youth through a variety of activities during their one-on-one time together. As a program, we also provide group events for youth to enjoy positive recreational activities or to gain life skills – all within a stigma-free community.
Our first Group meetUP took place at the Sacramento Zoo. Seven Matches (youth and mentor) joined our founders April and Kecia, Match Coordinator Bonnie, Volunteer Photographer Lana and Intern Jordan for an afternoon at one of Sacramento’s most iconic locations.
Matches started with a self-guided stroll through the zoo then met as a group for a private Animal Encounter. The fun and knowledgeable zoo staff brought out a variety of small animals from all over the world, including a hedgehog, ball python, six-banded armadillo, and blue and gold macaw. Some animals hit instant celebrity status, while others needed more time. One mentor even jumped out of her seat at the sight of the snake.
Seeing the animals up close was a unique experience. Prior to this trip, some youth had never explored the zoo and one even stated she was not that interested in animals. At the end of our time, everyone was able to identify a favorite animal and what they enjoyed most during the zoo trip.
The group then headed across the street to William Land Park for lunch and an activity. After lunch, Matches were guided to choose a word that they wanted as a foundational part of their lives. Using paint pens, the word was then expressed on small river rocks, in whatever artistic fashion they chose. We also had two large river rocks for Matches to design together. We hope these keepsakes serve as reminders to remain strong and focused.
Group meetUPs are intended to be fun, but they are also meant to provide opportunities to gain new experiences and expand worldviews. As the youth smiled, engaged with nature, met one another, and took the time to consider their word, we saw this goal become a reality. Many more group events are planned, and we can’t wait!
Our special thanks to Lana for capturing some amazing moments and to the Sacramento Zoo for its generosity and hospitality. It was very special for our first group event to take place at such a memorable place.
