Ethan* has an extraordinary ear for music. He can sit at a piano and play complex pieces entirely by ear. But while music comes naturally to Ethan, connecting with others sometimes does not. Like many young people who’ve been in foster care, Ethan has been through a lot.  He can be cautious in trusting people, understandably.

For the past year, Ethan has been matched with Thomas*, his Wonder mentor. Bonding over a shared love for sports and music, Thomas has walked alongside Ethan as he navigates new experiences, visits new places, and builds self-confidence. Thomas has also taken the time to understand Ethan’s world beyond their regular outings—learning about his home life and supporting his progress in school. This investment in Ethan’s well-being was especially evident at Wonder’s summer camp.

Thomas sat for hours in the dining hall as Ethan played songs on the piano, celebrating each new piece and speaking with the other youth and mentors who stopped to listen in amazement.  These interactions and Thomas’s enthusiasm helped Ethan recognize that his gift was something worth sharing.

When camp held its music-therapy activities, Ethan found his moment to lead. Drawing on his talent, he encouraged his peers to experiment with different instruments. The momentum carried over into the afternoon tie-dye session, when Ethan struck up conversations with volunteers and adults—an interaction that previously would have been well outside his comfort zone.

Later that week, Ethan asked Thomas a vulnerable question that revealed just how important their bond had become: could they still spend time together after Ethan aged out of the Wonder program? Thomas didn’t hesitate to assure him that their friendship was here to stay.

For young people who have faced a lifetime of uncertainty, letting down your guard to trust an adult is a profound milestone. It signals a renewed belief in relationships. Camp gave Ethan a safe stage to share his talents, step toward his peers, and confidently look toward his future.

Wonder cultivates consistent, deeply rooted mentoring relationships that give youth the courage to connect and the space to develop their unique gifts. A mentor’s consistent presence helps young people heal from past trauma, ensuring they never have to face life’s challenges—or the future—alone.

*Names and identifying details have been changed to protect confidentiality.