Families are at the heart of everything we do. Each youth is paired with a long-term, salaried, professional mentor who walks alongside them for 12+ years, no matter what. For Ms. Diane and her son Kareem*, that relationship has become a source of steady encouragement, growth, and joy.

“He’s grown tremendously—not just academically, but personally as well,” she said. “He’s more confident in himself and in his schoolwork. Where he once hesitated, he now moves with purpose and pride.”

Once shy, Kareem is now eager to connect with others and feels a growing sense of belonging. Ms. Diane remembers one day when Kareem came home after talking with his Friend, Mr. Justin.

“Mr. Justin said he was confident I’d start picking it up soon,” Kareem told her. “You know what, Mom? I did. I completed my work, and I’m excited to keep learning.”

Whatever happens in those one-on-one moments between Kareem and Mr. Justin, Ms. Diane said, it’s clear that something special has taken root. “I don’t know exactly what kind of beautiful, magical, and inspiring conversations they have—but whatever they are, they’ve lit a spark in him that refuses to go out.”

That spark continued to grow when Mr. Justin encouraged Kareem to try football. What began as a shared love for the game became a chance for Kareem to step out of his comfort zone and discover his confidence. “Through Mr. Justin’s belief in him, Kareem found the courage to step onto the field,” Ms. Diane said. “Now, not only is he playing football—he’s thriving.”

Football has become a new source of joy for the whole family. “We cheer from the sidelines, share in his highs and lows, and celebrate every small victory together,” Ms. Diane said. “It’s strengthened our bond as a family unit, uniting us in our support for Kareem as he pursues something he loves.”

For Ms. Diane, one of the greatest gifts of our program has been knowing that Kareem has someone steady and supportive in his life. “It truly takes a village to raise a child,” she said. “Mr. Justin has become an invaluable part of ours.”

She says our work goes far beyond mentoring. “You’re doing more than just showing up—you’re making a lasting difference in the lives of our children and families,” she shared. “You create a safe and encouraging space for our children to grow, learn, and feel seen. That support doesn’t stop with the kids—it extends to families like ours.”

When Ms. Diane reflects on Kareem’s growth, her gratitude shines through. “You’ve given Kareem something I never had growing up—a true Friend.”

*Name changed for privacy