Building Connections

With the help of Youth Connection Coordinators, young people at StepStones engage in learning about and increasing their dynamic circles of support. Adults with whom youth have pre-existing, natural relationships are identified and invited to become a part of a youth’s network of support people. These individuals provide long-term housing solutions, stable guardianship, academic tutoring, regularly scheduled activities, and a solid foundation for developing a healthy interdependence.

One caring, trusted, and consistent adult can make a world of difference for young people from foster care. Youth at StepStones are matched with a thoughtfully chose, one-to-one, volunteer mentor who becomes a substitute family member with whom youth can trust, share their problems, and acknowledge successes. Mentors support youth with everything from school work to attending counselling appointments to celebrating their birthdays together. By nurturing genuine and natural relationships with a mentor through activities in the youths’ areas of interest, successful and long-term matches are solidified and supported.