3 weeks of Walking on Sunshine have come and gone. All things considered, the first three weeks have gone smoothly! A few glitches here and there, but I can't complain! I knew from the get-go that the success of this program would come down to the mentors. The mentors who have come forward to volunteer for this program have been amazing, and I am so thankful for their dedication to this program, and their dedication to their mentees. They represent a source of trust, dependability, and inspiration for their mentees. Unfortunately, when mentors cancel their relationship with their mentee may take a few steps back. Because homelessness itself can erode social relationships, many participants in the program are rebuilding their self-efficacy in forming and maintaining social relationships. So, when someone cancels on them, it may impact them harder than it would impact someone with intact and thriving social relationships. This is hard. I realize that things come up for mentors (people get sick, have school or other obligations, etc.), BUT, I really want the best for the participants of the program. I need to put my personal investment in the success of this program aside and realize that life happens. These experiences are learning experiences for myself, the participants, and the mentors. We will all survive, obviously...and I can only hope that they make every party stronger, particularly the participants. I pray that they do not take it personally and that they know that their mentor is there for them, but that things do come up. Their resiliency probably allows them to recognize this bettter than I do. Funny how things like that work..
There was my rant about this program. In case you can't tell, I have poured my heart and soul into this program. It warms my heart to hear that the participants are really enjoying their walks and time with their mentors. And of course, they are enjoying their new walking shoes!!
Whatever the outcome of this program may be, I know that this time in my life is one that I will never forget and one that I will allow me grow as a person and community member.
