YEP Mentors: Building Confidence and Connection

This fall, YEP Mentors participants have been building confidence, strengthening connections, and trying new things through experiences like a recent visit from Valero volunteers, where activities focused on teamwork, stress resilience, and self-regulation.

During the site visit, participants investigated how oil and water interact while creating their own lava lamps. The hands-on activity gave them a chance to learn through experimentation, ask questions, and see STEM concepts come to life in a fun and engaging way. We’re grateful to the Valero plant staff for sharing their time and knowledge with our Mentors participants.

That same focus on exploration and connection carries into the work of our YEP Mentors team. Our Social Work Intern, Savannah W. recently facilitated multiple social-emotional learning groups, incorporating STEM activities into conversations about trying new things and team building. The activities gave mentees a chance to work together, think creatively, and explore how they respond to new experiences.

At another recent gathering, one of our Youth Advocates, Beatrice Byrd, led a breathwork activity to introduce stress resilience and self regulation to 15 mentees and several parents. The afternoon ended with a game night, giving everyone a chance to connect and have fun together.

Through experiences like these, YEP Mentors creates supportive spaces where participants can develop new skills, build relationships, and explore healthy ways to navigate everyday challenges.