Stephanie Sealy began mentoring with Community of Hope in July 2012. She decided to become a mentor because she wanted to give back. As a child growing up in a single parent home, Stephanie often wished someone would take an interest in her family and help them out. Now as an adult, she cherishes the opportunity to provide fun and educational activities for her mentee. Originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma, she currently works for a health nonprofit called Results for Development.
Stephanie describes her mentoring relationship as rocky in the beginning, for both her and her mentee. Initially, her mentee was very shy and quiet. But over time, she has grown more comfortable with Stephanie. Now, when she arrives to take her mentee on an outing, she get hugs and a warm welcome from her and her family. Stephanie’s main goal with her mentee is to be a friend and an active listener and to show a real interest in her life.
In 2013 Stephanie wants to continue to focus on her mentee’s school work, as this is an area she struggles with. She hopes that by helping her with her homework and providing her guidance and encouragement with her academic endeavors, her commitment to school will improve. Stephanie also hopes that their relationship will continue to evolve and that one day her mentee will feel comfortable enough to approach her with any problem. She also plans on taking her to lots of new places, both fun and educational.
