In our program, youth grow through the consistent, weekly one-on-one support of a Professional Mentor.

Maya, a youth in our program, has struggled with behavior in the classroom. When work felt difficult, she distracted herself or shut down. Her Professional Mentor, Kayla, had been helping her practice ways to stay focused and manage frustration.

After an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting with teachers and Maya's mother, Kayla introduced a daily behavior chart. It helped Maya track small wins, such as avoiding conflict, starting tasks on time, and working independently.

After several weeks of checking her chart before recess and again after lunch, Maya’s teacher awarded her Student of the Week. When Mentor Kayla asked what had changed, Maya said, “I just want to do right. I’m getting older, going into middle school, and I want to do better.”

This is what emotional growth looks like. It is built over time, slow and steady, supported, and celebrated.

*Names have been changed for privacy.