The Mentor Connector is dedicated to connecting the Rutland Region’s youth with a sense of purpose, passion, and belonging.
“Our goal is to change the narrative of youth here in Rutland County,” Chris Hultquist, Executive Director, said. “Too often teenagers who hang out in a group downtown are seen as “bad”. The reality is they belong here. We all belong here and each and every one of us has a gift to offer this community.” Therefore, this summer, The Mentor Connector is working alongside other organizations, community leaders, parents, and youth through the Rutland Youth Coalition to distribute 10,000 activity boxes referred to as Out of the Box-es. This year’s theme, “You belong here”.
Established in 2004, the Mentor Connector has supported over 1,000 youth, helping them feel as though they belong. Hultquist explained the Mentor Connector utilizes a holistic approach to youth work, pairing youth with community resources, safe adults, and outlets to develop skills and realize their passions. “Youth are innovative. They want to form connections and relationships. They want to change and evolve. It is our goal to help guide them to the right people, and the right activities,” Hultquist said.
There are several programs in place to assist the youth that come to the Mentor Connector for assistance. These programs span from prevention services and mentoring to intervention services such as counseling and transitional living assistance. Although the organization serves all youth between 5 to 25, 94 percent of current participants live in poverty, while 85 percent suffer from family instability. Within the mentoring program, youth are matched with a community-based mentor who uses teachable moments to develop skills and assets. The Mentor Connector also oversees the Rutland Youth Coalition, a collaboration of community members, youth, and other local agencies. The coalition uses a data-informed approach to make Rutland County the best community for youth, a network of quality support.
“The Mentor Connector is a key resource for our region. Our youth are our future. Under Chris Hultquist and his staff’s compassionate and proactive leadership, that future is very bright,” said Lyle Jepson, executive director of the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR).
To become involved with the Mentor Connector or Rutland Youth Coalition, you can become a mentor, partner your business, or consider a donation by going to mentorconnector.com.
