Posted January 29, 2025
In Wayne County, the STRIVE Mentoring program (STRIVE) links youth (ages 10 to 17) who have been identified by the Wayne County Juvenile Court with a caring adult that provides support and helps them deal with various life challenges.
“The goal of the program is to prevent recurring involvement in the court system and to direct these kids down a different path.” STRIVE Program Coordinator Amy Banaga said.
Currently, STRIVE is looking for adults who want to give back to the community.
“We are always looking for adults who want to make an impact in a young person’s life, and this is a great opportunity,” Director of Wayne County, Sheryl Villegas said.
Before meeting his mentor, one mentee expressed how he never had a male role model in his life.
“When I first met Noah [mentor], I didn’t have no male role model at all in my life to really like vent to or nothing so I think that’s why we should have these mentors so we can change our ways,” the STRIVE mentee said.
Mentors involved with STRIVE also serve as someone who can simply be a listening ear for a young person.
“I think this program is really a benefit to individuals and kids who may not have the best folks looking out for them or just need someone to talk to.” STRIVE mentor, Noah said.
Being able to help guide a young person, be a listening ear when needed, and building rapport can expand into a beautiful friendship between a mentor and mentee.
“There’s nothing that I’m scared to talk to Noah about... He’s really like a friend now,” the STRIVE mentee said.
STRIVE is asking mentors to put aside four hours a month to invest in their mentees with one being a group activity planned by Amy.
Not only that, but those who are interested in becoming a mentor do not have to reside in Wayne County.
“You can be at Ashland, Medina, Summit, Stark County. Come on out and we can pair you with a young person,” Sheryl said, “...not only will they [mentee] benefit but you will benefit as an individual.”
Because of programs like STRIVE, young people in Wayne County are changing their behaviors and are able to have a support system through their mentors.
To learn more about the STRIVE Mentoring program or to sign up to be a mentor, click the link below or email Amy Banaga at amy.banaga@ccdocle.org.