In our program, mentoring is all about building a friendship with a teen from foster care. When an adult develops a trusting relationship with a youth, they’re able to be a positive influence in that young person’s life. This relationship, of course, is built over time and through shared experiences of simply enjoying activities, meals and fun together.
Each Mentoring Match enjoys time together differently. Our youth are encouraged to drive the types of activities they do with their mentor. Before we match a youth with a mentor, we take many things into consideration. The main criteria include the youth’s interests, personality and any requests they may have.
Once we pair a Mentoring Match together, we continue to monitor and support them. As their friendship grows, it’s amazing to see and hear about all the fun they have together. Check out some of these mentoring moments:
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We went hiking, even though it was hot and uphill, we survived with a few needed breaks. We dipped our toes in the ice-cold river then got some Mexican food before heading home.
We played 15 hands of Uno at a coffee shop. It was a BLAST! She had to teach me since it’s been over 20 years since I played last (LOL!)
We went to an event at Sac State. After enjoying music and getting a bunch of cool SWAG, we just walked around campus. It was really cool to share a bit of my college experience and it provided a space for her to share her dreams and goals too! This was probably one of my favorite experiences with her!
We went to a tennis court and it was great to just whack the ball and have fun with it.
We saw his first concert together so it was really cool! It may have inspired him to start drumming again.
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We know, and research confirms that youth who connect with a mentor have significant and statistically better outcomes. If you’re interested in being a positive adult role model and a consistent, supportive friend to a youth with experience in foster care, register for a one-hour, no-obligation orientation by contacting Program Director Kecia at kecia@agingup.org.
Fall 2019 Orientations from 6 to 7 pm:
Thursday, September 5 |Natomas
Thursday, September 26 |Elk Grove
Wednesday, October 2 |South Sacramento
Thursday, October 3 |Arden Arcade
Exact location will be shared in registration confirmation email.
