Mentor Program Spotlight: Outagamie County Mentoring Program

BY: MENTOR Greater Milwaukee

In the heart of Outagamie County, a remarkable initiative has been shaping the lives of young individuals for nearly five decades. The Outagamie County Mentoring Program, led by Nikki Gingras, is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship in the lives of youth, particularly those entangled in the Child Welfare or Juvenile Justice System. This program pairs youth aged 6-17 with mature, caring adults from their community, fostering development of character, competence, and self-confidence through consistent, one-on-one interactions.

What sets this program apart is its deep-rooted commitment to individual growth and stability. The mentors serve not just as role models, but as guiding lights, exposing these young individuals to new experiences, enhancing their self-esteem, and honing their social and problem-solving skills. Particularly for those transitioning out of home placements or involved in the Independent Living Program, mentors provide invaluable support in navigating the complexities of independent living, employment, and education.

The program’s approach is highly personalized, ensuring that each mentor, mentee, and their family situations are well-understood and catered to. This personalized approach has been a cornerstone of the program’s success and longevity, boasting impressive outcomes. According to a 2013 statistics report, 75% of the mentored youth had no new referrals to the juvenile court system. In a 2018 survey, a remarkable 96% of mentees felt they had become better people, with 96% gaining more confidence in themselves and having a more positive outlook on their future.

The success stories are numerous and heartwarming. Mentors have not only improved mentees’ grades and school attendance but have also introduced them to colleges, tech schools, and new hobbies, profoundly enhancing their quality of life.

Outagamie County Mentoring Program operates with a level of care that extends beyond regular mentor-mentee meetings. They maintain an ‘always available’ policy, with mentors assured of support within 24 hours of reporting any issues. This approach creates a ‘team’ atmosphere around each mentor-mentee pair, ensuring that everyone works in the best interest of the youth.

Given its impactful work, the program prides itself on a high retention rate of mentors, attributing this to the strong relationships and the noticeable difference they make in the lives of these young individuals. The program’s emphasis on confidentiality and its focus on individual needs underscore its dedication to the wellbeing and future of its mentees.

As they continue to navigate the challenges faced by youth in the welfare and justice systems, the Outagamie County Mentoring Program stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the profound impact mentorship can have on young lives.

For more information, please visit www.outagamie.org or contact Nikki Gingras at nikki.gingras@outagamie.org.