BEFORE I signed up as a mentor, I was looking for a way to make a difference.

I’m Michael, from Upper Arlington.

I became a mentor because I wanted to make a difference in the life of a child. My fraternity encourages African American men to stand up for children in the community, and I believe more people need to get involved.

I’ve been Del-Vaunté’s mentor for 10 years and have enjoyed every minute. I have talked to him a lot about the need to plan for his future and to think ahead.  The mentor program has given me the opportunity to be involved in the life of an extraordinary young man and his family. Instead of just complaining about problems, I get to be part of the solution. That’s how I LIVE UNITED.

 

Michael helped me figure out
what dreams to go AFTER.

I’m Del-Vaunte, from Worthington.

When I first met Michael 10 years ago, I didn’t like hanging out with him very much, but now he is like family to me. He helped me focus on school, and I look up to him.

Michael has been cheering me on every step of the way through 10 years of elementary, middle and high school. He’s been to many of my band and choir concerts, recognition ceremonies and even came with my mom to school to talk to my teachers when I needed his support. He gives great advice, and he inspired me to plan for my future. I’ll miss him while I am at college, but I know he will always be in my life.