Comments from a young woman in CPY-BBBS's HOPE Program

"The HOPE Program has affected me in many ways over the last year.  At first, I was skeptical; I believed I could do it all on my own, as I have for many years.  Though as things in my life started to decline immensely, I decided it was time.  Without this program, I would never have accomplished as much as I have in one year.  I never saw myself getting a car, moving out on my own, or having someone in my life who is there for me 100%.  There is nothing more rewarding in this world than friendship, and over the last year, I’ve found just that.  I never expected a bond so strong in such a short amount of time.  Before Lindsey, I had no adult influence in my life, or really even someone I could trust and depend on.  Lindsey in the most caring, strong and extraordinary woman I have ever met in my life, with a heart to help guide a young woman like me.  I am nothing short of blessed, not only to have been chosen for this program, but to have been matched with Lindsey.  Lindsey has been my back-bone and my shoulder to cry on in times of need.  I know that God must be watching over me to have brought me such joy.  Lindsey – you are the mother, friend and adult in my life that I never had.  I love you for that, and though this program will come to an end, our bond will last forever."
- Jaclyn, age 18

"Gretchen is fun and awesome!" Aron, age 12

"Having a mentor got me out and gave me more opportunities."
Marion, age 11

"I think it is a good thing to have a mentor because they help you with your problems." Don, age 13

"I like how CPY challenged me - I had the chance to clib a large wooden tower and I made it to the top" "Having a mentor is great because I can get good advice and answers to questions." Justin, age 14

"I think CPY is a great mentoring program. It helps kids a lot through rough times and it helped me and my friends a lot. I think more kids should sign up, because they don't know what they are missing. Thank you CPY!"
Dillan, age 14

"I have enjoyed having Michael as a mentor because he is funny and cool." "My favorite part of being in CPY is going places with Michael." "Mentoring is important so some kids don't feel left out." "Mentoring has changed my life because now I have someone who likes to do stuff with me almost all the time." Justin, age 15

"My mentor is funny and nice and we go to lots of places." "Being a part of CPY has made me feel more positive about myself." Mika, age 12