I Knew Mentoring with OBO was Something I Had to Do

Alicia attended a girls’ night at her home church, Harrisburg Baptist, in Tupelo, MS, and heard about One by One. “I knew mentorships were needed in my community. I read the One by One brochure and was instantly intrigued. I am a young mom myself, and I understood what it was like to need someone to just be there, and I knew mentoring with One by One was something I had to do.”

One by One matched Alicia with Mariah. Although Alicia was excited, she was a little worried about mentoring. “I felt sometimes like I wouldn’t be enough or wouldn’t be able to be a good mentor. I wasn’t sure I had enough experience as a mom to help another mom. Then I realized my main challenge was overcoming myself – and letting God work through us.”

Alicia said she and Mariah have had great conversations – and difficult conversations. She feels staying true to herself has allowed Mariah to be open and truthful with her about things she would experience. She says they have talked at least once a week since the moment they met. “I feel living my truth allows her to see what life can be. Being honest with her and letting her know she’s not alone has been helpful for her. She is able to talk to me about anything, and I don’t judge her for any of her decisions.”

Alicia has enjoyed being a mentor to Mariah. “It’s been a joy watching her grow into a beautiful mother – and now a wife! I was honored to attend her marriage ceremony, and it was an amazing moment. She’s grown as an individual as well. I enjoy being a part of her life and of her baby’s life. She’s done so well taking care of her baby. It hasn’t been easy, and there have been obstacles, but she tries daily to overcome any challenge she faces. I’m so proud to be her mentor.”

Alicia says one of her favorite moments with Mariah was when she asked for help finding a church to go to. “I was so excited for her. It was a joy watching her get excited about church and learning more about Christ. I thought it wasn’t going to happen, but she’s on her own time.”

Alicia encourages others to consider becoming a mentor. “If God leads you to do it, please do it. It will benefit you in ways that can’t be explained. All mentees are not easy, all are not as open, but there are some who want/need it just as much as you do. I needed to be a mentor to realize and understand how God works through me. I’m not perfect at all, but I can still be a vessel.”

Any new mom or mom of a young child can request a mentor by clicking here. Any Christian woman interested in becoming a mentor can apply here. Questions? Call toll-free 833.777.1157.