At Community of Hope, we talk a lot about how we are “more than just a roof” or “more than just a prescription” – that we are hope for families in DC. While essential housing and healthcare services are paramount, we strive to empower families to achieve stability and wellness by offering a number of supportive services. For the youth served in our housing programs, one such service is our mentoring program, which pairs youths with responsible, caring mentors who provide support and guidance. We asked Michael, 14, who is matched with a young professional, Tony, 27, to talk about his experiences in our mentoring program:
I am doing so much better in school because of my mentor. He even reads the books I am reading in English class just so he can discuss my reading assignments with me.
Mentoring doesn’t just help the mentee; inspiring a youth and helping him realize and reach his full potential is just as rewarding. About his mentoring relationship with Michael, Tony said:
I have learned so much from Michael and I believe that we will have a life long relationship. If I had to describe my mentoring relationship in three words I would describe them as blessed, privilege, and opportunity. Blessed because we get along great, a privilege because I get to help shape a youth, and opportunity just to see each of us grow through this experience.
We are so thankful for our mentors who help us be “more than just a roof” or “more than just a prescription.”
