Kelly and Chloe have been matched since January of 2016 through T.E.A.M. (Together Engaging Adolescents through Mentoring), a program of Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Boston. After completing two master’s degrees and returning from volunteer service with the Peace Corps in Burkina Faso, Kelly wanted to become a mentor as a way to continue to serve and to connect with her community. More pointedly, Kelly became a mentor because her service with the Peace Corps was dedicated to children in refugee camps. Her experience taught her that children are often forgotten. As a mentor she believes that she can play a small part in helping young people succeed.
Chloe is an 11-year-old girl from Haiti. She got involved with T.E.A.M. because she wanted a mentor from whom she could learn and with whom she could explore her surroundings.
Throughout their first year of being matched, Chloe and Kelly have been able to connect on so many different levels due to their unique, culturally rich backgrounds. Kelly has been a fundamental part of Chloe’s integration into the community. Often they have been able to share experiences that were completely new for Chloe.
At one of the first mandatory check-ins, Chloe stated excitedly and proudly that she had played in the snow with Kelly and was able to build her very first snowman. The excitement persisted with almost every check-in. As the year went on the matched pair continued to share new experiences, such as going snow tubing, riding a roller coaster, going to a baseball game, and attending a symphony.
It is through the power of mentoring and sharing these amazing experiences that Chloe and Kelly have been able to bond. Both mentee and mentor have reported that being involved with T.E.A.M. has been a once in a life time opportunity.
Presently Chloe and Kelly continue to meet on a weekly basis and maintain their strong connection. They have already started taking about next year, when Chloe will be going into seventh grade at a new school. Chloe stated that she is glad that she will have Kelly to talk to as she transitions into yet another new “culture.”
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