Sharing Volunteer Experiences
We offer volunteer the chance to share their knowledge and experience with the kids in our community who need it the most. Many of our mentors feel more fulfilled and happier with their careers, since their lives take on special meaning. Our volunteers report that they also get along better with their own families after mentoring these youth and find themselves becoming more patient, open-minded and better prepared to deal with challenges.
"I consider every success I've had since I was introduced to your program a direct consequence of all the wonderful things you have offered me. Thank you so much for helping to shape my future.” - Tasha, USC Film School graduate, completed first year of law school at the University of Northern Illinois in Chicago
"It's so amazing to see the kids' eyes light up when I drum and they understand the concepts about changing their attitudes and their lives." - Mark Schulman, Pink's drummer
"You gave me the best thing that ever happened since the day I was born... a chance." - Luis, Covenant House
"My experience at Maryvale was astounding, fun and quite special. I thank you for this volunteer opportunity. I was privileged to grow and learn alongside of this amazing group of girls." - Grace Chung, graphic designer.
"Without this program, I’d still be doing the bad stuff I was doing like ditching school and doing drugs. This saxophone lesson gave me a second chance to do something good and to show off the talent I have." – Frank, former resident of Masada Group Home, first chair saxophone at Compton Community College
"I watched the kids literally blossom from closed and shut down to excited participants. I was amazed by their creativity, production savvy and willingness to help each other. I know that by working on this video project, these children have a little more belief that their dreams can come true." - Laura Doyle, writer, "Early Edition" (CBS)
"I used to have a real temper problem. This class gave me a way to turn my negative energy to positive energy." - Dora, foster youth at Dangerfield Group Home
“Playing the drum was like a big ‘therapy session.’ You also gave me a lot of courage and helped me realize that it’s my choice to do right or wrong. It’s really on me if I want to be somebody in life.” – Manual, Phoenix House
“I always wanted to be an artist, but I never knew I had the talent of rapping or bringing aggression into the form of music. Create Now gave me a vision I will never forget.” - Jamall, emancipated foster youth