Most Commonly Asked
Who and What is a Mentor?
Mentoring the underprivileged is a highly rewarding experience that makes a significant positive impact on their lives. Here are some guidelines used by our mentors for effectively mentoring the underprivileged:
1. Be a good listener: Our mentors listen attentively to their needs, concerns, and aspirations. They show empathy and understanding and ask open-ended questions that encourage their mentee to open up.
2. Be patient and persistent: Mentoring the underprivileged can be challenging, as they may face numerous obstacles in their lives. Our mentors are patient and persistent in supporting them, and they don't give up on them even when things get tough.
3. Provide guidance and support: IWAM mentors offer guidance and support in areas such as education, career development, and personal growth. They also help them set goals, create action plans, and develop skills that will enable them to achieve their dreams.
4. Encourage and motivate: Encouragement and motivation is used to make each participant believe in themselves and their abilities. Celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and provide positive feedback and encouragement.
5. Be a role model: Our Mentors are told to Lead by example and set a positive example for them to follow. Demonstrate good values, ethics, and behaviors that they can emulate.
6. Provide opportunities: The mentor agenda is designed to Provide opportunities for each participant to learn, grow, and develop their skills. Introduce them to networks, mentors, and resources that can help them achieve their goals.
7. Be respectful and non-judgmental: Each Mentor shows respect for their cultural, social, and economic backgrounds, and avoids making assumptions or judgments. They are open-minded and non-judgmental and seek to understand their unique perspectives and experiences.
Overall, our mentoring program for the underprivileged requires a commitment to making a positive impact on their lives. With patience, persistence, and a supportive approach, mentors can help them achieve their dreams and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
In What Ways Can I Help?
Donors and volunteers are an essential part of Imagine With A Mission. Donors provide the financial resources necessary to carry out the organization's mission, while volunteers donate their time, skills, and expertise to support the organization's work.
Here are some key aspects we consider when thinking about our donors and volunteers:
Diversity: It's important to have a diverse group of donors and volunteers that reflect the communities we serve. Diversity can bring new perspectives and ideas, and help our organization better understand the needs of the people we serve.
Engagement: Our donors and volunteers need to feel engaged and connected to your organization's mission. This is achieved by providing regular updates on our organization's work, recognizing and thanking donors and volunteers, and creating opportunities for them to get involved and contribute.
Recognition: Donors and volunteers want to feel valued and appreciated for their contributions. Recognizing and thanking them for their support is important and can helps us build a long-term relationship.
Training and support: Volunteers need to feel equipped and supported to carry out their roles effectively. Providing training and support can help volunteers feel confident and valued in their roles, leading to a more positive experience for them and better outcomes for our organization.
Transparency: It's important for us to be transparent about how donations are being used and the impact they are making. This helps in maintaining trust and confidence with our donors, leading to increased support for our organization's mission.
By prioritizing the needs and interests of our donors and volunteers, our organization has created a strong and engaged community of supporters who are committed to our mission and willing to contribute their time, skills, and resources to support our work.
How Do We Respond to a Need?
To be quick and nimble with assistance, Imagine With A Mission considers the following strategies:
Have a clear mission and focus: It's important to have a clear understanding of our organization's mission and focus. This helps us quickly identify the needs of the people or communities we serve and respond promptly to their needs.
Build a strong network of partners and volunteers: Imagine With A Mission built a strong network of partners and volunteers who help provide assistance when needed. This includes local businesses, community organizations, and individuals who share our mission and values.
Develop flexible programs and services: IWAM develops programs and services that are flexible and adaptable to meet the changing needs of the people or communities we serve. This includes emergency response programs or programs that can be quickly mobilized to respond to crises.
Use technology and data to inform decision-making: Technology and data helps IWAM make informed decisions and respond quickly to emerging needs. By leveraging data and technology, we identify trends and patterns and respond proactively to emerging challenges.
By implementing these strategies, Imagine With A Mission is quick and nimble with assistance, and responds promptly to the needs of the people or communities we serve.
Do we work with local communities?
Yes! We are currently developing a partnership with the Jennings School District. We will be releasing more exciting information soon.
Do We Partner with other Nonprofits in the area?
Yes, our primary focus is on the communities in North St. Louis City and County. We partner with school districts, nonprofits, and other available resources to rebuild the basic family infrastructure. We coordinate efforts to provide these eight basic needs: food, housing, transportation, education, mentoring, clothing, life skills, and healthcare. One Student (Family) at a time.
What is Our Principle Motivation?
We sincerely desire to see this this area of North St. Louis City and County restored to its once great condition where students and families have a self reliant life and bright prosperous future.