Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program (RAMP) Alumni Continue Growth - Elijah Fagan-Solis
I have found that nothing quite picks me up in the midst of a long day the way a milkshake from Stewart's Shops does. I was recently proven wrong when I went to get my pick me up and was pleasantly surprised to see a former RAMP youth joyfully working hard cashing out customers and then come over to mix my chocolate peanut butter cup milkshake. It was great to see him thriving in employment and even being offered extra hours in my presence.The milkshake was delicious, too, by the way.
RAMP uses group, peer, and individualized mentoring to teach youth about job options, to set and reach goals, as well as successfully transition them to employment, post-secondary education, and independent living. Often times, various seeds are planted in mentoring relationships and we don't always get to see them grow; oh but what a joy and sense of accomplishment it is to see the seeds bloom - even if it just one flower.
What is even better is when you get to see numerous seeds bloom and see even more parts of the plants budding. While attending my niece's graduation, I heard the name of a former RAMP youth who was also graduating with aspirations to join our nation's military. I also connected with two other alumni over the summer who had graduated from Albany High; one is currently working multiple jobs, and the other is attending a local community college for theater as acting and singing were always his goal.
My favorite flower, because of how much resiliency it has shown, bloomed this summer. This youth faced issues with bullying, getting into fights in and out of school, truancy, and numerous suspensions. He made the decision with the help of his mentor to attend night school so that he could focus on his goal of graduating all while working multiple jobs. He made up all the work needed and was passing the classes he was taking, yet he faced adversity once again in the form of a History Regents Exam that kept him from graduation in June. With the encouragement of his mentors, sharing of resources, and studying, this youth persevered and recently graduated last month! He continues to thrive in employment and hopes to attend college in the spring.
While only a few alumni were mentioned, many are doing great things and success isn't limited only to alumni either. Current RAMP youth have also been thriving in employment, volunteer opportunities, camps, sports, and more. Even greater things are expected with the start of the school year upon us. What a beautiful aroma it is when you stop and smell the roses.
To learn more about the Ready to Achieve Mentoring Program, visitwww.youthpowerny.org/ramp/