Caroline and Bianca
Caroline had been living in the Bay Area for some time and wanted to become a mentor to feel more connected with the community. She had been looking at various local organizations and really loved Friends for Youth’s mission and purpose.
“Growing up as an only child I didn’t have many older peers to talk to. I thought being a mentor would be such a great experience to learn and grow from,” she says.
Caroline was matched with her mentee Bianca in January 2021. Bianca had been struggling with the isolation that came from the pandemic and distance learning, coupled with their cousin leaving for college. A mentoring relationship was one way to offer them a space to have valuable conversations and enjoy someone’s company.
Over the past year, Bianca and Caroline have enjoyed trying new food and boba shops, going to the movies, and spending time outside just hanging out and talking. They also got to go to a Warriors game together, which was the first time for both of them! Caroline says she has learned a lot from her mentee. “Bianca is so mature and intelligent and has taught me to be more creative. They are really good at so many artsy things that I can’t even imagine trying.”
Bianca talks to Caroline about what college they want to go to and what they want to major in. “Bianca has big goals but I know they will be able to achieve anything they want!” says Caroline.
Caroline says being a mentor has been a rewarding experience and has helped her feel closer to the community.
“I highly recommend becoming a mentor as you’ll learn so much about someone else and also yourself!”