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We are a small non-profit organization in Hawaii that facilitates partnerships between public elementary schools and nearby churches in order to provide mentors for at-risk children. Currently, our partnerships serve twenty-one elementary schools and approximately 150 students.
Many of our students face challenges such as broken homes, immigrant families, incarcerated parents, and even homelessness. The children selected by the schools don't always have behavioral or academic problems; sometimes they just need the personal attention that an adult mentor can provide.
Mentoring is a "structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support, and encouragement" (www.mentor.org); our mentors commit to meeting with their students for one hour, once a week, on their school campus. Although they are often church members, the mentors respect church-state separation—it is understood that no one will impose a religious agenda. We are supported by the State of Hawaii Department of Education Superintendent, and we received the Partnership in Education Award in 2007. Additionally, our executive director received the 2009 Outstanding Advocate for Children and Youth award from the Hawaii State Legislature. |
