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I have had the honor and privilege of being a mentor and friend to Kelly. What began as a commitment has grown into a meaningful relationship rooted in trust, consistency, and care. 

“Over time, I’ve come to truly love her—not only for who she is, but for the courage and dedication she brings to her own growth.”

Kelly has been deeply committed to developing emotionally and spiritually, and it has been a privilege to walk alongside her during such an important season of her life. She has shared that being a part of TLF, has provided her with the tools, structure, and direction she needed to step into independence with confidence. Having the opportunity to support her as she applies those tools in real life has been incredibly meaningful to me.

Our relationship is built in the everyday moments. We talk about life—school, work, career paths, and the challenges and decisions that naturally come with becoming a young adult. 

Sometimes we meet for a walk, sometimes for coffee, but most often we share a meal and meaningful conversation. We make time to connect at least once a month and stay in touch through texts in between, creating a steady rhythm of support and connection.

Being a mentor has impacted me just as deeply as it has impacted Kelly. “Walking alongside her has stretched me, softened me, and reminded me of the importance of patience, listening, and simply being present.”  I have learned to celebrate small victories! Watching her grow has encouraged me to reflect on my own journey and continue growing as well.

Mentorship has reminded me that showing up matters. “It has shown me that relationships are built not through grand gestures, but through steady presence, honest conversations, and shared time.” Being able to mentor Kelly has been a gift in my own life—one that has deepened my compassion, and reaffirmed the value of investing in relationships that help both individuals grow.

Before being matched with a mentor through Teen Leadership Foundation, Tara was navigating some of the hardest parts of young adulthood alone. She struggled with setting healthy boundaries, expressing her emotions, and opening up about her past — challenges many youth carry quietly while trying to move forward. 

Everything began to change when she was matched with her mentor.

From the beginning, her mentor showed up — not just consistently, but intentionally. “My mentor has always shown up for me intellectually and emotionally,”  Tara shared. For the first time, she felt safe enough to talk about her past, her emotions, and her hopes for the future, knowing she would be listened to and valued. 

What made the relationship different was the depth of connection. My mentor didn’t just offer advice — "she believed in my decisions, understood my motives, and took genuine interest in my thoughts and experiences." “My mentor makes me feel seen,” she explained. “She’s always eager to hear what I have to say” 

Over time, mentorship helped Tara grow in tangible and deeply personal ways. She became more confident setting boundaries, more comfortable expressing her emotions, and more open about her story. Perhaps most powerfully, mentorship strengthened her faith. “My faith has risen, and I’m much more comfortable in my own skin,” she said. Being seen and cared for helped her begin to see herself the same way 

When asked what it meant to have an adult consistently choose to show up for her, Tara’s answer was simple and profound: “It means everything to me.” Through mentorship, she gained not only support, but hope — and a clearer vision of her future.

Today, Tara describes mentorship as something that carried her through life’s challenges and helped her see herself “in a greater light.” Her story is a testament to what happens when one caring adult answers the call to love, guide, and stay.