I am
thrilled to get the opportunity to describe the incredible service that Trusted
Mentors provides to our community. As a
Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2009 and a Licensed Clinical
Addiction Counselor (LCAC) since 2011, I have been consistently referring for
all of their 15 years and have never been disappointed. Jeri Warner used to be a one woman show. She has successfully developed her program
and staff to sustain that individualized person-centered approach. Her staff is engaging and receptive
throughout the process of mentorship.
They find strong mentors and do an exceptional job of linking mentors
and mentees. They are strengths-based
and future-focused, taking on people in all stages of life, regardless of
diversity factors.
Menteeship
allows adults to build healthy relationships with safe peers. This sounds simple, but is too often
rare. Individuals who have struggled
with a serious mental health issue, an addiction history, legal issues,
homelessness, trauma/abuse issues, limited educational opportunities,
dysfunctional family or friends; or any combination have additional barriers to
stable and mutual relationships. In
addition to having fun and trying new things, mentees will likely build skills
in the areas of boundary setting, improved communication skills, and an overall
increased empowerment through the consistent support and encouragement of being
a mentee.
Mentorship
allows a personal portal to a life likely different than yours, exposing you to
life experience and diversity quite different than your own. An opportunity for a greater understanding
and empathy, while giving back and building up our community from the
inside. This relationship builds skills
in active listening, engagement, managing differences in opinion, boundaries,
and the necessity of self-care.
It is rare
that a service can provide such differing benefits to both sides, but Trusted
Mentors does. My only wish for them is
increased support and growth, as this resource is priceless to our community.
Sincerely,
Stephanie
DeMaris
LCSW &
LCAC
