As a community of one-to-one relationships, the health and safety of our Matches is a priority.
Due to official guidelines and stay at home directives to slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), we have instructed mentors to withhold outings with their mentees until further notice. We are, however, providing resources and encouraging mentors to discuss this situation with their mentees and to stay in communication – and continue to “show up” for their youth – through text, calls, video chats and even snail mail.
Our Founders and Board Members continue to closely monitor information from health experts and will update our emergency policy as needed. Founders are committed to supporting our teens, mentors, caregivers, volunteers and donors. They are safely working from their home offices and conducting virtual meetings and conference calls.
We are grateful for local and national guidance to make the health of citizens a priority, yet, we look forward to when this passes and our Mentoring Matches can return to their regular one-to-one get-togethers.
ways you can help
You can meet the immediate food and household supply needs of our youth and their families. Please consider making a special donation or sending gift cards for local grocery stores, Target, Walmart or Amazon. You may also wish to provide transportation with Uber or Lyft gift cards. As youth are bored at home and wish for more ways to connect with friends and their mentors, Google Play and iTunes gift cards are also requested. Gift cards can be mailed to PO Box 22963, Sacramento, CA 95822. All donations are tax-deductible.
resources for you
We understand this is a difficult time, especially young people. Please encourage youth in your life by talking with them to ensure they feel safe and can express their emotions. An article from the National Association of School Psychologists or NPR’s youth-friendly comic may help your discussion. And, for ideas to keep young people entertained while they are home from school, consider virtual field trips, check out free e-books from the Sacramento Library or review the list of activities shared by the Elk Grove Unified School District and check out our 7 Tips to Connect with Tweens and Teens.
Please also practice self-care. From neighborhood walks and other exercises to connecting with others or engaging in creative outlets, there are many ways to reduce anxiety and stress. You may also benefit from guided meditations and resources offered by the relaxation app Calm.
stay safe
Aging UP is a community and we appreciate you being a part of it. We encourage you to abide by all social distancing and sanitary measures as we work together to get through this pandemic.
