Every relationship has its beginning somewhere.
Michael and Raymond discovered something special in their tutoring relationship, something that deserved more attention than reading, writing, and arithmetic. In the midst of tutoring, a mentor relationship emerged.
Faced with stressors beyond the classroom, Raymond* was going through a difficult time. Tutor Michael felt a connection with this anxious, unsettled youth. He wanted to do more and offered to be Raymond’s mentor as well. Trained as both a Tutor Match tutor and a Life Support mentor, Michael is now there for Raymond when he needs help in school or in life.
Sometimes they meet for tennis, chess, or meals together. Other times, they meet at the local library to study. Sometimes teachable moments arise from these interactions. Once when Raymond asked for help with an English project, he came to the library without knowing the specifics of how he needed help on the assignment. Michael was able to use this rocky tutoring session as a teachable moment on the importance of preparation.
Michael and Raymond enjoy their time together. Whether the focus is on fun or school work, they find time to connect in meaningful ways. Raymond has support in both academics and life with Michael by his side. Who knows where life will take Raymond. Wherever it is, Michael will be right there, as both his tutor and mentor.
*All names have been changed to protect privacy. The stories are real.
>There are 1,270 youth ages 13-17 in foster care in SC.
Source: Foster Care Dashboard (https://reports.dss.sc.gov/ReportServer/Pages/ReportViewer.aspx?/Foster+Care)
Want to become a role model for a youth in foster care?
Find out more:
- Tutor a child in foster care
- Mentor a youth in foster care
- Become a foster parent
- Become a Guardian ad Litem
