As we celebrate National Mentoring Month in January, we also celebrate the launch of YMCA of Western North Carolina’s participation in Reach & Rise®, a free, therapeutic mentoring program that supports youth. A national YMCA mentoring program designed to strengthen relationships, Reach and Rise® was developed by the YMCA of San Francisco in 1992 for youth ages 6 to 17 and has
The program connects trained adult co-mentors with individuals or small groups of youth for structured mentoring cycles lasting 8 to 16 weeks. Through shared experiences and relationship-building activities, youth are supported in developing social-emotional skills and a stronger sense of belonging. Mentors receive training and ongoing support to help youth strengthen skills related to self-confidence, communication, academic engagement and decision-making, while fostering safe, healthy relationships.
The YMCA of Western North Carolina is offering group sessions this spring at two elementary schools and a middle school. Working with local schools, the Y’s mentors will support youth with challenges such as decline in mental health, low self-esteem and family or peer conflict. Research consistently shows that having a caring adult mentor can help young people build resilience, improve academic engagement, and develop critical life skills.
“National Mentoring Month is a powerful reminder that showing up consistently for young people can change lives,” said Melissa Wiedeman, vice president of youth development at the YMCA of Western North Carolina. “Through Reach & Rise®, we’re creating space for meaningful connections that help youth feel supported, valued and confident as they navigate school, relationships and their future.”
Y's Mentoring Program Serves Teens Nationwide
YMCA of Western North Carolina is the first Y in the state to offer the Reach and Rise® program, which now serves youth in 12 YMCA associations across the country. Mentors reinforce positive coping skills, challenge negative thinking and connect youth to supportive partners and organizations. Data shows that youth participating are less likely to be involved in juvenile delinquent behaviors, more likely to avoid substance abuse, improve academics, and build stronger family relationships.