Two mentors in Fuller Center’s afterschool program are using sports to help students build confidence and relationships. Jake Schmier and Lucas Grodner teach students the fundamentals of sports and offer encouragement and guidance on and off the field, according to the organization.
The pair recently received a $2,500 grant from the International Baccalaureate Global Youth Action Fund for their work creating positive change through sports and mentorship. They also donated about 100 pieces of sporting equipment, which Fuller Center said will give children more ways to stay active and learn teamwork.
In July, Schmier was named Fuller Center’s Mentor of the Year at the organization’s annual Legacy Birthday Awards. He said the recognition belongs to the students as much as to him.
Mentorship program details
Fuller Center’s mentorship program is financially supported by the United Way of Palm Beach County. Each mentor works with two to three students on average and commits to at least four hours a month. Activities range from tutoring and athletics to coding and STEM projects.
Eric Roby, the organization’s chief executive, said mentors extend Fuller Center’s mission to empower children and families through high-quality education and support. Fuller Center says it has served families across Palm Beach and Broward counties for 55 years and reaches more than 1,000 children each year.
