In the spirit of Giving Tuesday, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit is sharing stories of the positive impact mentors have had on students and how those who want to help can get started .
Los Angeles Team Mentoring (LATM) pairs hundreds of volunteer mentors with middle school students to help students develop their skills, become more comfortable with themselves, and provide appropriate guidance. Its programs include virtual meetings with leaders for participants and a summer leadership camp.
During virtual meetings, mentors will guide students using an interactive curriculum. The nonprofit’s goal is to “help middle school students from difficult urban environments realize and maximize their potential as members of their communities.”
“I felt like they really cared about me because they understood my problems more than I expected,” LATM student Jonathan Cerritos said of his mentors.
Cerritos’ mother said the boy found community within the program, which helped him become more comfortable in his own skin. He joined the program two years ago after experiencing bullying at school.
“It was really hard for me because I saw him come in crying and I said, ‘Mom, that’s what they called me.’ Mom, that’s what they used to call me. I didn’t know what to do.” said Cerritos’ mother, Evelyn Osorio. “I’m seeing a big change in his demeanor and demeanor.”
The program’s mentors come from all walks of life and include teachers, entrepreneurs, business owners, and more from across the community.
“We try to guide them, support them and strengthen them with good instruction and a good curriculum that helps them increase their self-esteem, because when they increase their self-esteem, ultimately Because they can make better choices,” said William Figueroa, LATM Program Director.
Click here to learn more about LATM, enroll your child or become a mentor.
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