She's Been Everything I Needed

Angel heard about One by One from Life Choices in Columbus, MS. She said that as a young mother she was looking for guidance in her life. “I started growing closer to God, so I felt having a God-fearing mentor was the next step.”

Stacy heard about OBO from her church, Fairview Baptist, and felt she could offer a new mom guidance from a Christian perspective.

As much as Angel wanted a mentor, she was concerned about being able to participate because she did not have a car. But her oldest brother stepped in and made sure that she saw her mentor for each meeting. Angel says, “My mentor provided a safe place. She has always been there for me and my son and has been everything I needed: mother, friend, and mentor. And I enjoyed the prayers.”

Stacy says Angel was open to their mentoring relationship “from the word ‘go.’” Being a mentor challenged Stacy to get out of her comfort zone a bit, but she enjoyed “pouring helpful things into a deserving mom.” Stacy adds that she loved seeing Angel grow in her spiritual life and her decision making. She says Angel truly desires to follow God’s plan for her.

One by One was also able to help Angel in an incredibly practical way. One by One partners with Midsouth Hope Garage, a nonprofit that repairs donated vehicles and gifts them to vulnerable families to improve their quality of life. One by One nominated Angel to receive a car, and Midsouth Hope Garage provided a vehicle for Angel. She says, “Being gifted a car helps me go to work so I can provide for my son and myself. I am able to help my family as well be able to get where they need to go. My family and I are able to attend church together. I am just so thankful for everything!”

Although Stacy and Angel have completed their One by One mentorship, they still stay in touch. Stacy says they built a lifelong relationship and they text, talk, and meet every couple of months for coffee. “She’s very good at keeping me informed about what’s going on with her.”

Angel adds, “She has become another mom for me. Anything big or little I always go to let her know. We meet when life is not so busy, but we always message each other.”

If you are a pregnant or new mom, you can apply for a One by One mentor today by clicking here. Your mentor will meet with you monthly throughout your pregnancy and your child's early years, providing friendship and support; teaching baby health, safety, growth, and development information; sharing parenting strategies, demonstrating the love of Christ, and providing access to additional resources.