Wonder Mentoring Program

Overview

Wonder Mentoring Program
Improving the emotional & social well-being of children impacted by child welfare

Wonder is a mentoring program matching children and youth impacted by foster care, one-to-one, with caring, consistent adults. The mentors are trained to listen, support, and guide each child through fun, age-appropriate experiences in music, the arts, sports, volunteer service, dining out, and nature. The children enrolled in the program are called “Explorers” and the adults who volunteer and serve as mentors are called “Guides.” Together, they participate in a journey of fun and exploration filled with Wonder moments. A Wonder Guide may be the most consistent adult a child in care has in their lives. There is a minimum one year commitment to become a Guide.

“What I like best about my guide is how supportive she is and how much of an impact she has made. She motivates me and helps me see the better side to any situation. She has helped me succeed and be motivated in school.” ~ Dana (Guide) & Neassa (Explorer), Matched since 6/9/12
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Celebrating Success

  • 72 youth and mentors were matched in the Wonder Mentoring Program.
  • Since the inception of the program, Wonder has matched more than 500 local youth with a mentor. 

Currently, we have 25 youth waiting to be matched with a mentor. 19 of these youth are looking for a male mentor. Join us at our next orientation to learn about becoming a Wonder mentor, email wonder@ssyaf.org for more information.

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Leaders in Training

LIT members and coaches at a social gathering

The Leaders in Training Program is an additional initiative offered by Wonder, specifically tailored for active matches engaged in the Journey+ Level for a minimum of 2 years. Explorers eligible for participation should be at least 13 years old. LIT members play a crucial role in both the functioning and growth of Wonder, contributing significantly to the success of the various hosted events.

The program entails active involvement of all LIT matches in activities such as leadership development skills, comprehensive training, camp planning, and community outreach. The overarching aim of the program is to underscore the profound impact of mentorship on the development of Explorers. This impact is reflected in the enhancement of self-confidence, self-worth, fostering a sense of belonging, and cultivating the ability to envision and plan for the future.