Xavier’s Story, Part 4: From Surviving to Thriving

Xavier’s heart raced as he walked down the empty hallway of his new school. He barely looked right or left. Mostly he looked at the heels of his mentor’s shoes. “Hey, look!,” said his mentor, James, “There’s the cafeteria! That’s where you’ll eat breakfast and lunch.”  

It was a hot Thursday afternoon in August, one week prior to the first day of school. James was giving Xavier a sneak peek. “There’s the library. I bet you’ll find some interesting books to read.” This would be the fourth school in four years for Xavier. That’s a lot of transitions for a little boy who doesn’t like change.

Xavier has faced a series of significant challenges. His family was evicted; they lived at the rescue mission; they couch surfed in the homes of friends and relatives. Xavier and his mom even spent at least one night on the street. He’s been in and out of foster care.  

Xavier’s mom is trying. She loves her kids. But being a single mother with very little support has been a challenge for her. And  so Xavier has struggled. His brain is stuck in survival mode. 

But because of the financial support of people like you, Xavier has a Life Buddy (a mentor). Life Buddies make a difference. Our trained, professional mentors have the skills and the time to connect deeply with children facing the most significant obstacles. Our mentors see the needs that lurk below the surface, and they advocate to meet those needs, no matter what. 

That’s what has happened with Xavier. He has settled in at his new school. His reading and math scores are improving. His teachers love him and accommodate him. Recently, his doctor confirmed the improvements by taking Xavier off his ADHD meds! 

We are committed for the long haul to support children like Xavier.