January is National Mentoring Month
In 2002, Harvard School of Public Health and MENTOR (National Mentoring Partnership) launched a national movement to promote and recognize mentors for their positive impact on the youth.
Mentors are people who can provide guidance and support. Mentors have experience on things the youth could be currently going through. I asked Mr. Taimak and Portia Willis of Greenville if I could interview their journey as mentors. They answered a few questions. They are mentors and leaders of the Bridge at Koinonia Christian Center (KCC).
The Bridge is a young adult ministry for people between 18 to 35; that helps enhance, encourage and empower people.
How did their Story Began?
In 2015, KCC was looking for people who were willing and available to lead the Bridge Ministry. Mr. Taimak and Portia were the couple willing to lead the Bridge into greatness. I wanted to know why did they want to become a mentor? Mrs. Portia believed it was her duty to give back and be able to share information to those who need it. Mr. Taimak responded to the question by saying “I had to always been a mentor for kids since he was in high school.” he continued to state that mentors are what is being missed in the community. That’s true. About 1 in 3 young individuals will grow up without a mentor. It is important to have mentors that guide and influence growth in children to do more beyond what they think is impossible.
Who influenced you to become a mentors?
Mrs. Portia was inspired by her mother and the elders of the church. Mr. Taimak agreed with the response his wife gave. What also influenced him were his parents to become the mentor and leader he is today.
Most Difficult and Best Leadership
As they were developing to become mentors, I asked them what leadership skills were the most difficult to develop? Mr. Taimak said communicating what your need while being real and supportive. The most challenging skill for Mrs. Portia was her logical side (things that make sense) tapping into the spiritual side (taking time to develop with God). Another challenging skill was “speaking the truth in love.” What she meant by her quote was speaking so people will not feel offended by what you say.
Now, let’s shift gears and speak about your best leadership skills you have developed as mentors. Mr. Taimak chimed in by saying that caring about people. Letting people know that care about them as a person. Mrs. Portia commented being intuitive. Being able to hear what others are saying without being forward.
Approaching The Work-Family Life
“Effective communication is key to balancing work-family and being appropriately serious about the right things such as God and family” said by Mr. Taimak. Carrying on the conversation by explaining the need to having a social life as well. I added that if you are constantly going to helping your family, working at your job, and providing for the community, you can get burned out. It is important to take time for yourself and do things you enjoy. Mr. Taimak pointed out that it takes focus, having fun and being able to finish tasks. You need a strategic plan. You will need to be willing to put yourself in uncomfortable situations because you are not going to know how to do everything. You can’t sprout your seed and grow if you are living comfortable. Mrs. Portia noted that having conversations with young woman about what it means to be successful and discuss the behind the scenes (the daily effort and foundation) as well.
How Do You Want People to View You?
They wanted to be viewed as a couple who love each other, people who serve God, the people around them and their children.
Conclusion
I appreciate my mentors taking the time out of their busy lives to answer my questions. I am grateful to have a couple to look up too. I enjoyed getting to know who they are. This is one story of many mentors who inspire people like me.
How has your mentor impacted your life?
Have you told your mentor “Thank you?”
Would you become a mentor? I know I have!
For more information on the Bridge and National Mentoring Month, please click the embedded links below!
The Bridge at KCC
National Mentor Month
Recent Comments