This was also our second group event with Mentoring Matches from both of our first two cohorts. Knowing that we had new Matches that are still in early relational development stages along with Matches that have been together for almost a year, brought additional rays of joy.

It’s not always easy to get teenagers to wake up early on a weekend, but even with our 10 a.m. start, there was great energy. Our group had private use of the entire facility. We began with an introduction and learned that two teens had never played laser tag and that several mentors had not played in 10 or more years. After pastries, fruit and juice, the friendly staff introduced us to the laser vests, guns and rules of play. We then entered the laser arena to enjoy a thrilling game of running, squatting, hiding and firing lasers at one another. 

The activity level was certainly high. After our first game, everyone was rather warm, so we cooled down with more snacks and some arcade games. Most of the Matches wanted to play laser tag again. During this game, our group decided on team play. The teams were assigned based on the vest that was grabbed. For the majority of the game, the blue team overtook the second floor; however, they still lost to the red team by points. It ended with laughs, high-fives and some friendly pointing as the group eyed the scoreboard.

The morning continued with mingling over arcade games and air hockey. One of our mentors also generously covered the costs of bumper cars for those who wanted to experience that activity. It was great to see so much interaction. Youth related with their mentors and one another. A few of the teens had previously lived in the same placement and they were able to reconnect during this event.

Group meetUPs are one of our core program services because of the many benefits they provide. They are designed to offer new and fun recreation that allows youth from foster care to enjoy typical teen activities within a stigma-free environment. They also encourage physical movement or creativity, which serves as a relief from everyday adolescent troubles and the additional stressors often associated with living in foster care. Finally, group events enhance mentoring friendships as youth and mentor engage through shared experiences.

The smiles, as well as post-event evaluations, let us know this event was a bright light to all who attended.