Mentoring Former Foster Youth at Sierra College

After being in business for over 10 years now, one of the benefits Lyn relishes most is allowing herself the time to give back. Over the past several months, she has mentored several former foster youth studying at Sierra College. From helping them determine a career path, to editing resumes, to coaching them during the interview process, Lyn has impacted their professional, and personal, lives on multiple levels.

Sierra College’s financial aid department operates the Guardian Scholar Program to assist students that have aged out of the foster system and have minimal financial resources and support which with to tackle the rigors of college. Lyn approached the program manager with an offer to mentor two students who could benefit from dedicated time with a recruiting professional.

Valerie McClay and Jamaiciana Satterwhite accepted the challenge and have collaborated with Lyn to determine a career path and are now both gainfully employed while preparing to transfer to university. By taking the time to get to know the girls, Lyn has been able to guide them in a proactive direction, recommending specific classes and exposing them to career options.

Valerie is a second year Human Development major, now a behavioral therapist with a local agency that provides services for kids with autism spectrum disorders. Valerie is getting hands-on, in-home experience, an opportunity she never thought possible.

“Lyn really gave me the confidence to go for it. I liked my job nannying for an autistic child, but I never thought it was something I could transfer into a profession. I’ve already learned so much. I’m pretty sure I want to do this forever,” Valerie commented.

Jamaiciana, with personality to spare, has put her love of books to use as a customer service representative at Barnes & Noble. She plans to continue to take advantage of Lyn’s expertise to choose a major at Sac State.

For foster kids that have come to not expect much permanence in their lives, the prospect of nurturing yet another relationship can be daunting. But Lyn’s approach put the girls at ease and earned their trust.

”Most people smile at us and move on. I thought she’d tell me a few things, maybe ask a few questions. But Lyn told me about her experiences and talked, emailed or texted anytime to help me,” Valerie added. “She’s awesome!”

Add Comment