How One Mentor Helped a Teen in Foster Care Dream Bigger

When Molly* joined Atlanta Angels' Dare to Dream® mentoring program, she wasn't looking for someone to fix her story. She simply wanted what she had watched her sister experience for months: the joy of having someone show up just for her.

Like many young people experiencing foster care, Molly had experienced change and uncertainty. As she prepared for adoption, she was entering a season filled with hope, excitement, and understandably, a lot of emotions. What she needed most wasn't another program or another appointment. She needed one trusted adult who would simply be there.

At the same time, Morgan was saying "yes" to becoming a volunteer mentor.

Having been adopted herself, Morgan understood that adoption is beautiful, but it can also bring complex emotions. Her own experiences gave her a unique perspective, allowing her to connect with Molly through empathy, encouragement, and understanding.

They were a Dare to Dream® Match! Through our one-on-one mentoring program for youth experiencing foster care, and from their very first meeting, a meaningful friendship began.

Together with their Program Coordinator, Morgan and Molly made friendship bracelets. More than a fun icebreaker, those bracelets represented something much bigger: a promise to continue showing up for one another.

Over the following months, their friendship grew through ordinary moments that became extraordinary because they shared them together. They grabbed boba tea after school, got their nails done, conquered obstacle courses, laughed through roller coasters at Six Flags, and celebrated milestones both big and small.

With every shared experience, trust deepened.

Confidence grew.

Joy became easier to find.

For Molly, having one consistent adult who continued to show up created a safe space where she could simply be herself.

Molly and Morgan showing off their signature friendship bracelets.

"She is the best!! I feel supported and have fun with her." Molly

Why Mentoring Matters for Youth Experiencing Foster Care

Every young person deserves someone in their corner.

For youth experiencing foster care, consistent relationships can make an incredible difference. While caseworkers, foster parents, teachers, and advocates each play an important role, a mentor offers something uniquely personal: a trusted friendship built on consistency, encouragement, and genuine care.

That doesn't mean mentors have all the answers.

Instead, they show up.

They listen.

They celebrate accomplishments.

They encourage dreams.

Sometimes the greatest impact comes from simply being a reliable adult who keeps their promises.

Research consistently shows that supportive adult relationships help young people build confidence, strengthen resilience, and develop a greater sense of belonging. At Atlanta Angels, we've seen those outcomes come to life through hundreds of mentoring relationships created through Dare to Dream®.

More Than a Mentor, A Trusted Friend

Morgan's encouragement extends far beyond their monthly outings.

A gifted public speaker with contagious enthusiasm, she inspires Molly to embrace new opportunities and believe in her own potential. One especially meaningful milestone came when Molly attended a teen conference led by Morgan, where she learned, celebrated, and saw firsthand what confident leadership looks like.

Today, Morgan and Molly continue to encourage one another.

Morgan brings empathy shaped by her own lived experience.

Molly brings courage, curiosity, and resilience.

Together, they remind us that mentorship isn't a one-sided relationship. Both mentor and mentee grow together, learning from one another in ways neither expected.

Their story reflects the heart of Dare to Dream®: transformation happens through relationships.

What Does a Dare to Dream® Mentor Do?

Many people wonder if they're qualified to become a mentor.

The truth is, you don't need to be perfect.

You don't need to have all the answers.

You simply need to be willing to show up.

Mentors in Dare to Dream® spend intentional time with one young person each month, building a friendship through everyday experiences. Whether it's grabbing coffee or ice cream, attending a sporting event, exploring a local park, working on homework, or simply having a conversation, those moments add up to something life changing.

Consistency matters far more than perfection.

One caring adult can help a young person feel seen, valued, and believed in.

Could You Be Someone's Morgan?

Molly

and Morgan's story is one example of what happens when one person decides to say yes.

Not because they had all the answers.

Not because they were extraordinary.

But because they were willing to invest in a relationship.

If you've ever wondered whether you could make a difference in the life of a young person experiencing foster care, the answer is yes.

By becoming a Dare to Dream® mentor, you'll walk alongside one youth as they discover their strengths, build confidence, and dream bigger for their future. You'll receive training, ongoing support from your Program Coordinator, and the opportunity to become part of a community committed to ensuring every young person has someone in their corner.

Because every child deserves more than services.

Every child deserves someone who shows up.

And sometimes, that someone is you.