Cabby was a mentor at Ciudad Nueva who worked with a group of our younger boys for about five years. Hopefully you read our recent post about one of those boys, Jesus, whose family ended up having a deeper connection with Cabby throughout the years.
Her story is a small view into what prompts someone to be a mentor and what blessings can be experienced as a result of the time invested in a child’s life.
Diving into something new can be scary for anyone
Even adults get nervous trying something new. Cabby mentioned that she is a shy person so mentoring was definitely something a little out of her comfort zone. However, she had been a math teacher for many years so working with kids was not new.
“I am shy and not artsy, so for that part of the group time I was not much help,” says Cabby, describing her uncertainty when she began volunteering. “I was a math teacher at the time, so I felt my best contribution was helping them with homework. That is where I really felt useful.”
Jesus was one of the boys in Cabby’s first group. Although she enjoyed working with all of the boys in the group, she developed a special bond with Jesus and eventually with his mom Cinthia and his sister Hannah as well.
“Jesus was extremely responsible and very open to having a mentor,” says Cabby. “Eventually, I would go to their house, pick him up with his sister, and take them to church. Their mom is wonderful as well.”
As Cabby got to know Jesus and his family, her extended family connected with them as well. They would often be at each other’s family gatherings and share food and holiday gifts.
Staying the course
“These kids are at risk for falling into the wrong crowds,” says Cabby. “Jesus was a good kid from the very beginning. He was eager to do the right thing and participate. He also had a loving mother who was taking care of her kids. Even with all that, Ciudad Nueva provided a safe place for him to be outside of school, a place where he could be encouraged and where he could dream big.”
Cabby remembers that Jesus said he wanted to be a pediatrician when he grew up. Although he ended up changing his goal to computer programming, she always encouraged him to pursue what he wanted.
“He was a sweet young man who always worked really, really hard. I think his mom instilled that in him,” she says.
Reaping the rewards of relationship
Cabby says the best part about being a mentor was the satisfaction of serving others with her gifts.
“I think Ciudad Nueva is such a worthwhile program,” she says. “I loved working with the adults and the kids. You get to form some really strong relationships with children who need a mentor.”
And if you aren’t sure about getting involved with kids, Cabby’s story will encourage you that whatever your gifts are, you have something valuable to contribute.
“You can get as involved as you see fit,” says Cabby. “You can encourage them to come to church and be a very positive influence in a young person. You get to be their encourager and their friend.”
Are you ready to share your unique gifts with a few kids who need a mentor? Call us today at 915. 521.2951 or sign up through our volunteer link.
