“I’ve learned that no matter what, you will always be able to find someone who cares about you and wants you to be here and will support you,” said 13-year-old Rowan from Florence. “And I did learn how to make an omelet, too.”
Newport-based non-profit Mentoring Plus works to build relationships with 13 to 21-year-olds. Some of those youths have had long-term exposure to neglect, violence, abuse and mental health issues and are referred to the program through local juvenile justice offices, schools, or community organizations and agencies.
Mentoring Plus Program Director James Ramsey said that when the organization has enough volunteers, the goal is to pair every kid with a mentor. They pair them with someone who has like-minded interests, someone they connect with and get along with, and who has more life experience…