SOL 2/31 - Update on Mentoring Program

Yesterday was the 7th week of our After-school Mentoring Program for 8th & 9th graders.  I wrote about this program earlier this year New Mentoring Program

 It's been a great experience (although challenging) for us "older" volunteers who haven't been around teenagers for a while.  The first couple of weeks were hit and miss, but the kids kept coming back.  We started out with 8 kids the first night and have continued to have between 6 - 10 kids each week.  While the coordinators had anticipated more, we feel that God has blessed us with "just the right number".   Start slow and learn from our mishaps and unknowns. 

Most of the kids started out needing help with math - ALGEBRA.  Well, that's not in my vocabulary.  Fortunately we do have some who are knowledgeable in that area.  They also needed help with Civics, Science and Literature.  But, the most important thing they need is acceptance - someone to listen to them and be a friend.

I must say that has happened.  I was on vacation for two weeks and when I returned, one young man ran up to me and said, "Judy, where have you been?  I've missed you."  A great big hug and on his way to get a snack and back to asking me if I was going to work with him.  And this has taken place with the others volunteers as well.  Each of us have made an impact in just a short 7 weeks.

Last week, this same young man noticed that one of the kitchen workers was drinking what he thought was one of those energy drinks.  He looks at me and says, "She shouldn't be drinking that!  You know, well that you're all older and it isn't good for your heart."  He cares.  She talked with him and assured him it wasn't an energy drink and thanked him for his concern.  Special.

Even though we don't always understand the homework requirements, we're learning and trying to share our knowledge.   This has been a most rewarding program and one that will continue.





Comments

  1. AnonymousMarch 2, 2016 at 8:23 AM

    Thank you for sharing your mentoring program! Isn't it crazy to think that in such a short amount of time...only 7 weeks...you are making a tremendous difference in a child's/young person's life? It really makes me stop and think about how I am spending my time. Am I making an impact? Thanks for the link back to your mentoring program - I am going to read up on it!

    ReplyDelete
  2. LynnMarch 2, 2016 at 8:32 AM

    Oh my gosh Judy I have tears in my eyes! The impact you are all making in these kids lives is priceless! The best part it works both ways!

    ReplyDelete
  3. elsieMarch 2, 2016 at 9:43 AM

    You nailed it when you recognized that these kids need acceptance and someone to listen. What a great program! It does take a village to raise kids.

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  4. AnonymousMarch 2, 2016 at 11:59 AM

    You ant the others are making a big difference in the lives of these students. That you are missed when away is a great testament to what you mean to these students. Congratulations on a wonderful program.

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  5. MichelleMarch 2, 2016 at 12:07 PM

    I love that you are a part of such a special program -- and you said it best: these kids want acceptance. Even scrawny teenagers with an attitude. Just knowing that you are there to listen and talk and know that you care makes all the difference in the world. Keep up the great work, Mom -- and maybe they can teach you some algebra! :)

    ReplyDelete
  6. AnonymousMarch 2, 2016 at 11:26 PM

    What a great program! You are making a difference in those lives... and it sounds like they are making a difference in yours, too! It does take a village to raise kids!

    ReplyDelete
  7. ChrisMarch 3, 2016 at 9:21 PM

    What a great opportunity for the kids and the mentors! (PS - I love to use KhanAcademy.com when I need some math explained - maybe the kids would like it!)

    ReplyDelete

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