1-on-1 at Reach and Rise good for participants
On Wednesday, May 10, our community section featured an article on one-on-one mentoring returning to the Reach and Rise program that operates from the Butler Family YMCA.
Reach and Rise serves youth ages 6 to 17, and helps those enrolled deal with issues like conflict management, problem solving, social skills, making friends, dealing with bullies and others concerns.
Jessica Burr, Reach and Rise clinical director, said group mentoring, in which a youth participates in an activity with an adult Reach and Rise mentor, is great for members who would benefit from exposure to other children experiencing the same feelings or issues they are facing.
Sometimes, though, it’s difficult for children — or anyone, for that matter — to deal with their troubles in a group setting. Some things might be worked out easier with the individualized attention children can now receive through the program.
Exposing children — many of whom Burr said are struggling with living in a disadvantaged area or a single-parent home, or having an incarcerated parent or school issues — to people who can act as additional support systems can only serve them well.
She cited the pandemic’s deleterious effect on children’s mental well-being and social skills. Helping children rebuild those capabilities will make for a stronger generation of adults moving forward, and we can’t wait to see the results of everyone’s efforts.
We commend those involved with Reach and Rise on their dedication. Hopefully, children who need the extra attention will benefit from it.
— CM
