Testimonials

“I think at the end of the day it’s the relationship we have with them that makes the difference because they’re cared for, they loved. They’re included and that makes all the difference.”
-Rhonda, a Mentor

“Some other foster homes just thought of me as a foster kid. Here, they think of me as family. They treat me like family.”
-Diamond, an adolescent in foster care

“The staff at MENTOR and the services they provide have improved my daughter’s life in so many ways. Our family is so happy with the quality of care.” -Juanita, a mother

“It works. I’ve seen it work through David.” -Louise, a Mentor, about David, the individual she supports

“I was shocked because I never thought I could do a lifestyle like this. I’m happier than I’ve ever been.” -Kim, an adult in a Host Home

“MENTOR cares. They care about the people who work for them and they also care about the individuals they serve. We all help one another.” -Jewell, a Mentor

Our Services at Work

From the first time they met, Louise knew David was special. He was barely 15 years old at the time, but already he had experienced enough change to last him a lifetime. David has faced health issues from birth and has intellectual disabilities. At age 14, his mother realized she was unable to take care of him. Away from the only home and family he had ever known, David was placed into multiple foster homes. Struggling to cope with the changes that had erupted around him, he experienced emotional and behavioral challenges, making it difficult for the foster families to support him. But when David was placed into Louise’s home through Georgia MENTOR’s Specialty Foster Care program, everything changed.

Louise was able to see the potential beyond David’s challenges. She knew that with caring support and nurturing discipline, David could thrive. With constant guidance from their dedicated team at Georgia MENTOR, Louise was able to provide David with the warm and supportive home he needed. They became more than foster parent and foster child to each other ­— they became family. David affectionately calls her “Ma,” and Louise has embraced him into her family and life as her son. When David turned 18, Louise became a certified Host Home provider so that she could continue to offer him a home.

Now 27, David enjoys playing sports and is active in Louise’s church, where he sings in the choir and helps with maintenance. His health has improved significantly, and he is on fewer medications. Louise beams with pride whenever talking about David and the man he has become.

“David is special,” she said, “and he is special to me.”

While not every day has been easy, through Louise’s patience and his own determination, David has become a vital part of his community and a beloved member of the family he found with Louise.

If you are interested in learning more about how you can make a difference like Louise did? Go to Become a Mentor to learn more.

Do you know someone who would benefit from our services? Email us to learn more about our programs.