Through Good Samaritan Ministries - Faith in Youth, 12 full-time AmeriCorps members, 4 half-time, and 4 quarter-time AmeriCorps members will establish a mentoring program for children attending the area's 6 middle schools, with the goal of improving academic achievement and promoting a sense of well being, particularly for youth at-risk due to isolation or poverty.  Mentors will be recruited and the program supported through partnerships with local churches and faith-based organizations located near the schools served.  Corps members serving out of five area churches will assist with the recruitment of 105 community volunteers to serve as one-on-one mentors for youth.  Members also provide after school activities at least two days per week and academic assistance at least once per week.  The program strives to help 75% of the 234 youth served to achieve positive behavioral changes, as measured by youth surveys and parental feedback.

Counties served:  Ottawa

Contact Information:  Robyn Afrik, Program Director

Good Samaritan Ministries

513 East Eighth Street, Suite 25

Holland, Michigan 49423

Phone: (616) 392-7159 x107

Email: rafrik@goodsamministries.com