Mentor, Freddie Coleman alongside his mentee, Aaron.

Mentor: Freddie Coleman

• What do you enjoy the most about mentoring?
  • The responses I get from the kids. Aaron is really engaged and we have built a great relationship, he opens up to me. I have earned his trust and I’m able to watch him progress and grow.

• How long have you been mentoring?
  • I have been mentoring for a total of twelve years. I’ve been mentoring Aaron for two years.

• What are some of things you and your mentee do during your session?
  • We talk about life, his grades, school, and things he and I enjoy and also things that he wants to try. For example, he has shared that he wanted to play soccer but was unable to due to his GPA, he and I have been working on ways to improve his GPA. This helps him to understand that to be able to get things you want you have to work hard to earn them.

• What inspired you to become a mentor?
  • Reflecting on my childhood and my mentor. I used to go to the Boys and Girls Club and along the way there were very influential people in my life who helped me.

• What are some goals that you and your mentee set?
  • Improve in school.

• What is your favorite memory with your mentee so far?
  • I was teaching him to tie a tie and he was really engaged and enjoyed the experience.

• Is there anything you would like to share with others about your mentoring experience?
  • If you aren’t a mentor try it and help the kids. The kids really need it especially if they aren’t able to get that extra support at home due different circumstances. If you have the time, give it to the kids the feeling is amazing and you can help change a child’s life.

Mentee: Aaron Littles 

• What do you like most about your mentor?
  • I have someone to talk to no matter what it is.

• What is the best advice you have received from your mentor?
  • Stay in school and stay focused because it has helped me to be better.

• What is your favorite memory with your mentor so far?
  • I do not know I just like meeting with him.

• What are some accomplishments that you have accomplished with your mentor?
  • Doing better in class and school. I have not gotten into trouble as much as I used to, have better grades and I am improving in my classes.

For information on how you can become an Achievers For Life mentor, visit: unitedwaynefl.org/achievers-for-life