Teaching the Foundations of Adulting is so Much Fun!!

Coach LoLo with Academy 4 fourth grader, David

One of my (many) struggles working with teens to develop life skills is helping them to build self confidence. Confidence to speak up, question everything, make decisions, resolve conflict or simply navigate systems and processes. I find myself thinking "These are skills our youth should've been exposed to and practicing when they were in elementary school."

So instead of adding this thought to an endless mental list of complaints, I found a program that seems to be an effective step toward resolving this challenge. At Academy 4, adult mentors are matched with individual 4th graders. Mentors focus on building a solid relationship with their mentees while making a lasting impact. Mentors share stories (and laughs), teach constructive behaviors and instill the knowledge needed to be a productive member of society such as listening carefully, carrying a "yes!" attitude, encouraging and respecting others, setting a good example and serving our communities.

This volunteer experience has been priceless and I can't wait for the next school year to do it again!

"Coach LoLo

I had [a] great time with you. We said a lot of funny stuff in the past. I love to play games with you. It was very fun.

David"