Unlocking Potential: Empowering Underserved Students in Cypress Through Mentorship and Compassion
For most youth, life after high school is often seen as a world of possibilities with newfound freedom and independence, studded with opportunities to explore their passions, pursue higher education, and embark on rewarding careers. But for underserved students, the idea of stepping out into the adult world can be a daunting concept, particularly when resources are tight and opportunities seem few.
In Cypress, a nonprofit organization, Cy-Hope, is orchestrating a powerful change for our young people. Their mission is simple yet fundamental - to improve the lives of kids in our community. One of their flagship initiatives, the Ambassadors of Compassion program, is making this mission a reality.
Established in 2014 with a vision to transform lives, the Ambassadors of Compassion program was created as a beacon of hope for underserved middle school and high school students in the area. In collaboration with school administrators, teachers and passionate volunteer Mentor Coaches, the program aims to nurture students’ personal development, foster goal-setting capabilities, and sharpening communication skills. Through the skills obtained in the program, students are empowered to navigate challenges and make informed decisions.
“As conversations with school administration continued, there was a need to support our older middle school and high school students as they were on their educational journey and develop leadership as they get ready for life beyond high school,” said Katie Kaisinger, the Program Director for Cy-Hope Mentoring. Using the Ambassadors of Compassion video-based curriculum, Cy-Hope Mentoring began to pilot the program in schools where there was an established relationship with Cy-Hope and community Mentor Coaches, paving the way for what has become a vital support for local students who need it most.
Currently, this initiative stretches across Cypress-Fairbanks ISD and Waller ISD, touching the lives of students across five high schools and one middle school. And driving this force are 40 community leaders who dedicate their time to help students enhance their sense of self-worth and purpose in life. As the need for the program grows, so does the program’s need for Mentor Coaches. This year, the Ambassadors of Compassion program is looking to bring on 10 additional Mentor Coaches to support the growing needs of the program.
The impact is tangible and inspiring; just ask Daniel Arizpe, an Ambassadors of Compassion mentor. As a Cypress-Fairbanks ISD graduate and now, a professional photographer and passionate community advocate, the school environment and culture allows him to better relate to the students on a personal level. Inspired by the positive reviews from friends, Daniel joined the program as a mentor in 2021, leveraging his personal experiences as a student to find common ground with his mentees.
“I was once in their shoes. My perspective provides a unique icebreaker and the students are more engaged in learning what my experience was as a student and what has changed over the years at the school," said Daniel.
Daniel Arizpe, front left, with Katie Kaisinger at Cypress Spring High School for the Ambassadors of Compassion program. (Source: Daniel Arizpe)Not only does the program offer a transformative experience for the students, but it also presents a unique opportunity for Mentor Coaches to give back to their community in an impactful way. Hosted by a campus liaison, Mentor Coaches collaborate and partner in a group setting to mentor a captive audience of students once a week for a one-hour class period. Although the time commitment is minimal, the impact is lasting and profound for mentors and mentees alike.
"The ability to build rapport over time and consistently prove to the students that they can handle the challenges in life and be a positive influence on the people around them is invaluable," Daniel shared. "The growth you see in the students throughout the program is rewarding and enriching, and provides a profound sense of accomplishment."
However, the ultimate success of the Ambassadors of Compassion program depends heavily on the community's contribution. As Cy-Hope looks to extend its reach to more campuses, classes, and mentors, they encourage individuals to step up and make a difference in a student's life by becoming a mentor or sponsoring a student for a year in the Ambassadors of Compassion program.
"We are always searching for mentors that are wanting to walk alongside students as they journey through their teenage years. The more Mentor Coaches that we have, the smaller we can keep our groups - this is where the conversations happen and the trust is built," said Katie.
Over the years, the Ambassadors of Compassion program has become an integral part of the community, fostering essential life skills and resilience among the youth. Through dedicated mentorship and guidance, Cy-Hope is shaping a brighter future for the kids in the Cypress area. And now, it is your turn to make a difference. To learn more about becoming a mentor or support this pivotal program in other ways, please visit the Cy-Hope website for more information.
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Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
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