Mia: Group Mentee
After hearing about Friends for Youth through friends, Mia became interested in joining our school-based group program. Mia was struggling with unhealed trauma, a recent loss in her family, and transitioning back to life after rehab for her mental health issues. Hopeful that FFY could help, she opened herself up to support.
Talking about her tough experiences had always been hard for Mia, but she quickly opened up. Weekly check-ins became a safe space where she felt comfortable to share about troubles at home, friendship and relationship issues, and any other problems she was going through. Grateful for the judgment-free space, she quickly created amazing bonds with her mentors. She felt welcomed in with open arms.
“No matter what I talked about, they were always supportive. And to this day, they're the people I can actually go to talk to without being judged,” said Mia.
Mia was also able to create great bonds with other youth in the program as they participated in check-ins, field trips, and other activities together. Mia found another layer of support through these new found friendships. “The diversity of the program is great in the sense that we get to talk to so many people that I would probably not talk to outside of the program,” said Mia.
Throughout her time in the program Mia feels she has gained so much, improving her ability to empathize, listen to others, communicate, and be a leader.
“Every single mentor has helped me in a way they wouldn’t know. Just them being there and actually listening and actually paying attention has made a huge impact on me. Prior, I didn’t feel like there were people interested in me and my story. They’re amazing people and I don’t have enough words for them. I would 100% recommend this program to others.”