Acclimation (For Kids!) Can Be Hard

There are mentoring resources available to make it easier!

Hello and welcome to Portage & Stark Counties! We are so excited to have you as part of our community.
 
My name is Brittany Brown and I am the Director of Middle School Programming at The Legacy Project of Stark. I have experience working with students of all ages for the past thirteen years and have a passion for supporting and encouraging them to be the best versions of themselves.
 
A little bit about what we do at The Legacy Project of Stark is we provide mentoring opportunities for students throughout the county. We have school-based programs where volunteer mentors from their community meet with students during their lunch periods and also a Saturday mentoring program at our building in Massillon (The 708). 

Our programs focus on small group mentoring where our mentors are trained to express care, challenge growth, provide support, share power, and expand possibilities while being aligned with Ohio SEL Standards.
 
Stark County has multiple options available to get your student involved with mentorship opportunities. In today's fast-paced world, where the youth are bombarded with challenges, uncertainties, and immense pressures, having a mentor can make a significant difference especially if they are struggling emotionally. Mentoring is not just a passing trend; it is a powerful catalyst for personal and professional growth, especially in the lives of young individuals.
 
In each of these situations, a caring and dedicated mentor can make a significant positive impact on an adolescent’s life, providing them with the guidance and support they need to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
 
In conclusion, mentoring matters for youth because it is the cornerstone upon which future leaders, innovators, and compassionate individuals are built. Mentors inspire, nurture, and empower the youth, ensuring that they not only succeed but also contribute meaningfully to society. By recognizing the importance of mentoring, we invest in a brighter, more promising future for generations to come.


 
Recognizing emotional struggles in a child is crucial for their well-being. Here are some signs to look out for:
 
● Sudden Changes in Behavior
● Difficulty Concentrating
● Changes in Sleep and/or Appetite
● Physical Symptoms: Complaints of unexplained headaches, stomachaches, or other physical ailments without medical cause might be manifestations of emotional distress.
● Social Withdrawal: If a child avoids social interactions, especially if they were once social and outgoing, it could indicate emotional struggles.
● Expressing Hopelessness or Suicidal Thoughts: Verbalizing feelings of hopelessness, expressing a desire not to live, or talking about suicide requires immediate attention.
● Irritability
● Lack of Interest and/or avoidance