January 24, 2025 Meet our Friend, Nick! Six Years of Mentorship, A Lifetime of Impact Nick’s journey as a mentor began during his year as an AmeriCorps member, where he worked as a literacy intervention tutor at an elementary school in Brooklyn. That experience deepened his passion for working with children and helping them succeed. When his AmeriCorps term ended, Nick sought a way to continue making a meaningful difference, leading him to Friends of the Children New York. He was drawn to the organization’s mission of creating long-term, positive impact in the lives of youth. For over six years, Nick has mentored the same group of boys, fostering trust, providing guidance, and celebrating their successes. Each relationship has been unique and meaningful, shaped by the individual needs and strengths of his Achievers. One of Nick’s Achievers, Jeo, is a vibrant second grader with an energetic and determined personality. Together, Nick and Jeo have formed a bond built on shared experiences, like exploring new parks, trying different foods, and navigating challenges together. Reflecting on Jeo’s growth, Nick recalls how he initially struggled with behavior and grades, often being sent home early from school. Now, Jeo attends school every day, enjoys learning, and has significantly improved academically.“What stands out to me about Jeo is his resilience and drive,” Nick shared. “It’s been incredible to see his confidence grow and to know I’ve played a role in his journey.” Nick’s mentorship exemplifies the impact of long-term, consistent support. His ability to connect with his Achievers and nurture their potential highlights the transformative power of relationships built on trust, care, and shared progress.