One of the most rewarding aspects of being a Berkeley student is the ability to give back to the surrounding community. Many of you have probably already read Meg’s article on the YMCA Shadow Program, a program that allows local high school students to spend the day with a Berkeley undergrad. If you think the community service alone is rewarding, how much better would it be to receive credit for these volunteered hours?

Meet the Sage Mentorship Project, a club that offers units of credit in exchange for weekly one-on-one mentoring with underprivileged youth from Berkeley and Oakland-based elementary schools. Cal undergrads act as role models and friends to these young children rather than simply tutoring them, a technique that helps foster positive and personal relationships. Mentorship includes helping students with homework as well as playing with them during recess and spending time with them on the playground and in the classroom.

An average of 400 Berkeley students participate in the Sage Mentorship Project, committing two hours a week to the club. Sage’s executive officers take the time to individually match each elementary student with his or her respective mentor based on hobbies and interests. For example, club member Ryan Clough is paired with students who share a mutual appreciation for athletics. “I find that it is very helpful that I can connect with [the kids] in sports, because I can then use that connection to help motivate them in the classroom,” said Clough.

Sage is known around campus for the impact the club has had on the lives of neighboring youths. Many of the elementary aged students come from unstable homes; as a result, they truly appreciate the opportunity to form a relationship with a Berkeley student. Thanks to the funding of the ASUC and sponsors like Whole Foods and C.R.E.A.M. the program continues to thrive and benefit the lives of inner-city youth.

“Leading the Sage Mentorship Project this year is definitely the most rewarding experience I’ve had during my time at Berkeley,” said the club’s current President, Amrita Sehgal. “It’s truly amazing to see the positive impact Cal students make on these kids with just two hours per week of their time. The kids look up to them and are constantly inspired and motivated to achieve great things – just like their mentors!”

Are you interested in becoming a part of the Sage program? Information sessions for the club will begin in September. Visit the Sage Mentorship Project Facebook page, or the website at www.sagementors.org to learn more!

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