I Believe in Me

Our flagship program, 'Hope Dealing,' is committed to fostering the development and empowerment of youth through personalized mentorship. Our mission is to ignite ambition and guide young individuals towards prosperous and fulfilling futures, breaking the chains of generational adversity. 'I Believe In Me' extends its services to underprivileged, disadvantaged, and at-risk youth, aged 6-18, hailing from marginalized communities across Frederick County. We uphold an inclusive policy, providing unwavering support to any youth in need of resources, guidance, or moral encouragement. Our services are rendered free of charge, effectively removing financial barriers for single mothers, families, and individuals residing within the ALICE threshold or below the federal poverty line. The cornerstone of our after-school mentoring program lies in creating a secure and organized environment, complemented by transportation services from over 14 Frederick County Public Schools. Upon arrival, our mentees are greeted by mentors who have triumphed over their own adversities, fostering authentic and introspective dialogues that instill meaningful change. Youth participants not only benefit from nourishing snacks and meals but also gain access to educational support, including tutoring from dedicated volunteers. Furthermore, we offer motivational speeches, career exposure opportunities, financial literacy workshops, and engaging physical activities aimed at steering them clear of negative influences. Our group sessions incorporate physical fitness routines, featuring basketball, flag football, soccer, and an array of activities that promote holistic well-being. In addition, we provide therapeutic services tailored to ACES (Adverse Childhood Experiences) youth, offering essential support to those who have endured significant trauma and hardship. These services serve as pillars for developing coping mechanisms, fortifying resilience, and nurturing emotional well-being. To incentivize positive behavior and sustained engagement, we offer rewards such as gift cards, field trips, and participation in sporting events. In a bid to amplify our impact, we recently inaugurated the 'I Believe In Me Learning Center,' complementing our existing locations at First Church of the Nazarene and Monocacy Elementary. This state-of-the-art facility boasts a podcast studio, computer lab, activity room, theater space, and basketball court. These amenities not only foster collaboration and socialization among our youth but also broaden their horizons, exposing them to avenues of opportunity previously beyond reach. Additionally, the Learning Center is equipped with lockers stocked with essential supplies, ensuring that our youth have access to food, hygiene items, and clothing whenever required. To ensure lasting empowerment, we are steadfast in cultivating supportive environments. Through regular engagement meetings, parents are kept informed about program goals and updates, fostering alignment and bolstering support for our mission. A testament to our impact this year is the success story of a student who enrolled in our program in 8th grade. Hailing from a marginalized community, he faced formidable challenges and was initially enticed by criminal activities to support his family. Upon joining our mentoring program, he grappled with failing grades and exhibited attention-seeking behaviors. However, with consistent support, mentorship, and access to resources, he underwent a remarkable transformation. By the time of his graduation, he had attained a commendable 3.2 GPA and embarked on a trajectory toward success, facilitated by the community partnerships we fostered. Today, he is gainfully employed as a plumber, driving a company van, living independently, and diligently saving for his future home. His journey epitomizes the transformative influence of mentorship and community support, serving as a beacon of hope for his family and community. Furthermore, he remains an inspirational figure within the walls of 'I Believe In Me,' imparting invaluable lessons to fellow youth about the possibilities of success. At our core, we believe in the potential of every young person to thrive. By addressing their immediate needs and providing steadfast guidance, we are paving the way for a brighter future for the youth of Frederick County