In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews AD, the Men's Mentorship Manager at GRIP Outreach for Youth in Chicago. AD discusses his faith journey, his background in mentorship, and the mission of GRIP, which focuses on building meaningful, life-on-life relationships with youth. The conversation highlights GRIP's programs, such as SLAM, a sports-based mentorship initiative, and the Future Steps program, which helps prepare students for life after high school. AD underscores the importance of equipping mentors, connecting them with students, and fostering growth in both groups, concluding with inspiring stories of transformation and the role of prayer in mentorship.

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Takeaways:

• AD's journey from San Antonio to Chicago highlights the unexpected paths God can take us on.
• Mentorship is about building relationships and being present in students' lives.
• SLAM combines sports and mentorship to create a fun and engaging environment for youth.
• The Future Steps program helps students prepare for life after high school through practical skills and career guidance.
• Equipping mentors is essential for effective mentorship and building trust with students.
• Understanding the gap between expectations and reality can help mentors avoid discouragement.
• Prayer is a vital component in seeking mentors and guidance in mentorship programs.
• Growth in mentorship is a two-way street; both mentors and mentees learn from each other.
• Community partnerships enhance the effectiveness of mentorship programs.
• Stories of transformation remind us of the impact mentorship can have on young lives.

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Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to AD and GRIP Outreach
06:45 AD's Journey and Background
13:23 Understanding GRIP's Mission and Programs
19:30 SLAM: Sports and Mentorship
22:05 Future Steps Program: Preparing for Life After High School
25:35 Equipping Mentors for Success
31:18 Connecting Students and Mentors
35:31 Growing and Developing Relationships
36:18 Stories of Transformation and Encouragement

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