LEXINGTON PARK, Md. — Sometimes, a young person needs just one dependable adult in their corner — someone willing to listen, offer encouragement and help them recognize the potential they may not yet see in themselves.
A Star Within, LLC is working to provide that support through a new, free mentoring program for children and teenagers in St. Mary’s County.
Led by Dr. Ruby Lawrence, A Star Within is partnering with the St. Mary’s County Health Department to offer mentoring services for young people ages 7 to 17. The program will focus on positive relationships, confidence building, leadership development, academic support and personal growth.
“Our goal is simple: To make sure young people have positive people in their corner, who encourage them to recognize their potential and discover the star within themselves,” Lawrence said in an email announcing the program.
Community Invited To Kickoff Event
Families and community members can learn more during a kickoff and open house scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the St. Mary’s County Health Hub, 21625 Great Mills Road in Lexington Park.
The event will celebrate A Star Within as a new community partner at the Health Hub. Visitors will be able to tour the facility, meet members of the A Star Within team and learn about the mentoring program and other ways the organization plans to support local families.
The St. Mary’s County Health Hub connects residents with health, behavioral health and community resources, many of which are offered at no cost.
Through the new partnership, A Star Within hopes to reach families whose children could benefit from additional encouragement, guidance or academic and personal support.
Mentors And Mentees Wanted
A Star Within is accepting both mentors and mentees for the program.
The organization is looking for caring adults who are ready to mentor young people and make a positive difference in their lives. It is also inviting St. Mary’s County youth ages 7 to 17 who are ready to learn, grow and develop new skills.
The program’s female mentors will participate as G.R.A.C.E. Leaders, representing the principles “Guide. Reassure. Affirm. Cultivate. Empower.”
Male mentors will serve as L.E.G.A.C.Y. Leaders, encouraging participants to “Lead. Encourage. Guide. Affirm. Cultivate. Youth.”
Through those relationships, organizers hope to help young people develop strong character, build confidence and understand that they have people in their community who want to see them succeed.
In addition to one-on-one encouragement, the program will provide life-skills development, leadership opportunities, academic assistance, positive activities and space for participants to form supportive relationships.
“Let’s work together to help every young person discover their potential and become their brightest self,” the organization stated in its program announcement.
Adults interested in serving as mentors and families interested in enrolling a young person can contact A Star Within at AStarWithin5@gmail.com or 240-741-8804. Participants may sign up by email or enroll in person during the Sept. 12 kickoff event.
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