NUMBER CRUNCHIN’ NEWS
March 2000,  Page 3

links to:  Page 1    Page 2

Mentoring – An Opportunity To Make A Difference

Pam Allman, CPA

A mentor has many functions, according to Sloane Reali, the presenter at our February 2001 meeting.  The role of mentor is comparable to the role of a facilitator – that is, someone who makes the path easier for another.  Each of us has been mentored, and in some way, probably mentors others.

 

Sloane introduced us to the Independent Living Program in Santa Barbara County.  The unique quality of the young people in the Independent Living Program is this: They are teens removed from their homes because they were in danger, or their natural parents were unable to care for them.  They are supported by county funds, by foster parents; relative care providers, group home staff, or foster family agencies.  When foster youth reach age 18, they are no longer in the custody of the foster care system. 

Many of these young people come from group homes and have never been exposed to working life, as are youngsters who grow up in family setrtings.

Most foster teens do not have a sense of how to make a living for themselves.  They are unaware of the many opportunities available to them.  Their circumstances force them to make a decision about their work life earlier than others not in foster care.  Imagine having to provide your own living at age 18, with no guidance other than that provided by the schools and foster care adults.

I believe each of us can help in some way.  The Independent Living Program is looking for volunteers who will allow a young person to “shadow” a worker.  That is, observe a worker at their job.  A “shadow” would be for just one day and would assist a teen in understanding the working world, and inspire the teen to develop the skills and competence needed to become self-sufficient. 

 

You may work with clients who are beauticians (cut hair, manicure, etc.,) – tradespeople (carpenters, plumbers, electricians); auto mechanics, landscapers, or others who may not need a college education to perform their jobs.  Other professionals may also invite a “shadow” to spend a day and act as a role model for those teens interested in attending college. 

Think about your client base.  If you have a client who could take the time (one day) to allow a teen into their world, (let the young person experience a day in the life of……), you will be helping someone lead a better life.

 

Don’t forget, the act of being a mentor benefits not only the teen, but the mentor as well.   The liveliness and enthusiasm of young people is a joy to anyone involved one-on-one with a teen (especially if, as grandparents do, you can send them home at the end of the day – Ed. Note)

 

If you can help with the Independent Living Program, or know someone who can, please contact Sloane Reali at Santa Barbara City College – 965-0581, Ext. 3433, or email osterhag@sbcc.net for further information.

 

Editor of this month’s Newsletter was Sandy Stites.  Many thanks to Caron Garliepp for proofreading this issue. She will be next month’s guest editor.