Click here to see the types of volunteer opportunities we have available. 
Click here to find out more about becoming a mentor.

 

One mentor's story

"My name is Boyede Sobitan.  I was introduced to UCAN by a mentor of mine who told me about the civic activities he was involved with outside of work.  He told me of the innovative programs that were going at UCAN, and I could not help but to investigate these claims.  In the summer of 2006 I decided to volunteer my time and energy to impact someone else's life.  This decision was one of the best decisions that I have made.  I have become a better person for serving as a mentor, so much so that I do not look at my role as that of a mentor or as an act of volunteerism, but more an act of service and obligation.

The young man that I mentor is a fun loving kid who has overcome a lot of trials in his young life.  He and I have eaten breakfast together, played basketball, attended church and spent time on the phone just talking.  I am amazed at his level of intelligence at such a young age.  At the onset, it was challenging to get the young man to reach out to me, as I was reaching out to him.  This is still a work in progress, but the lesson I learned from this challenge was to keep at it.  I believe this young man sees that I am not giving up on him, and sees my dedication and commitment to his future. Hopefully, he will reciprocate the gesture to someone else as he grows. We do have a special bond. It is my hope that our relationship continues to grow.  Throughout his journey, I hope I can be there when he reaches various milestones in life, starting with graduating from high school!"

For more information, please email Ellen Acevedo, our mentor/volunteer coordinator.