chance to see him develop,” he says. It’s the standards at work—a simple hello, and just being there for others, builds trust and respect that forms the backbone of lifetime friendships. CPY is a nonprofit organization that serves young people and their families in Seaside’s schools. It provides an after-school mentorship program, along with various leadership programs for middle and high schoolers. CPY staff are immediately recognizable at their various schools thanks to their bright green T-shirts. Mentors help students with their homework, while giving them the opportunity to share whatever is going on in their lives, whether it’s their struggles or successes. Art and playtime are also important components of the program. Lead Mentor Ray Adams Jr. says the mentors work with the students to focus on their strengths as a way to build a trusting relationship. Too often, young people are told what they are doing wrong, rather than highlighting what they are doing right. Still, youth need to be told in a constructive way the difference between right and wrong, so they can discern the two. “As mentors, it’s our job to give a hand up, to hold kids accountable for their behavior, but also to build on their strengths,” Executive Director Shari Hastey says. “We really get to know our kids and see them grow and develop into amazing leaders and amazing people in our community,” Program Director Ben Bruce adds. Hastey says countless young people have moved up within the program, and many have taken on paid positions within the organization. Early on, CPY, which is marking its 34th year, was originally intended for students through fifth grade. But the organization’s leaders found that many of the students enjoyed the program so much that they didn’t want to leave, leading to the formation of the middle 18 THE BEST OF MONTEREY BAY® FAMILY 2025-2026 NATURAL Science DISCOVERY CAMP AGES 8-12 June 16-20 and July 14-18 Teen leaders accepted. WEE ONES IN THE WOODS AGES 4-7 June 16-20 June 30-July 3 July 14-18 (831)215-6010 marilym@ventanaws.org SINGLE DAY ADVENTURES AGES 8-12 June 30, July 1, 2, 3 HOMESCHOOL CLASSES AGES 6-12 Fall & Spring Wed. Visit ventanaws.org for more info OUR FAMILY EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL (831) 754-3888 | WWW.PARTNERS4PEACE.ORG Building Strong Families Strengthening Families®Program The Parent Project® Loving Solutions® Step Up Mentoring Scan me! Rainbow Connections Family Support Program Familia Adelante® Partners4Peace_1-3s_FG25_kb.indd 1 3/21/25 9:49 AM
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