Youth Mentoring Network program provides support for guardians and grandparents

WHEELING, W.Va (WTRF) — The number of grandparents raising their grandchildren has reached an all-time high in West Virginia.

Youth Services System understands the mental and financial strain guardians undergo. With the YSS mentoring program, families in the Northern Panhandle can find relief from stress and get the support they need.

Youth Mentor Coordinator Ashley Flaherty says children and caregivers alike benefit from this program.

“There’s a lot of extra stressors on grandparents. You know, it’s financial, keeping up with technology, they’ve raised their grandchildren, they could have mobility issues, so they really could benefit from an extra positive adult role model to be in their family just to help them out.”

Ashley Flaherty, youth mentor coordinator for YSS

Flaherty says mentors are based on interest, whether it’s helping with academics or participating in a fun activity, they’ll help you find the perfect fit.

“We had a former mentor that was into boy scouts and his mentee was in cub scouts, so he did all the scouting events with him until they graduated from the program. So, it’s really very fluid, it’s all up to what you want to do. Each mentor makes the experience their own.”

Ashley Flaherty, youth mentor coordinator for YSS

Children ages 6 to 17 can participate and parents or grandparents can sign up any time through Youth Services System’s web page or by emailing YSS directly.

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