L.A. Works makes volunteering easy and accessible for all Angelenos to make a significant impact in their community!
This Winter L.A. Works launched its first Season of Service focusing on the theme of mentorship. Whether its playing games with kids at a shelter or leading a life skills 
workshop for previously homeless parents, many of our projects are about interacting with others and setting positive examples. Gestures big or small, our volunteers can serve as mentors to those we serve as well as to one another.
Jeff Hopkins has been a volunteer with L.A. Works since 2005, becoming the Project Leader for the Activities With Teens at Children of the Night project in 2010. Jeff has embodied the mentorship role in many of his volunteer experiences and has been a passionate, loyal and exuberant leader for our community. The following Q & A are Jeff’s responses to what mentorship means to him.
Jeff Hopkins: Project Leader for Children of the Night (one of 3 project leaders)
Q: How do you see yourself as a mentor for the youth at Children of the Night?
A: The children we serve at Children of the Night (ages 12-17) have been involved in the sex industry and are trying to escape it. They have been exploited by many people, from trusted family members to pimps, and have encountered very few positive role models. By socializing with them in arts and crafts, games, improv comedy and other activities, we mentor them by showing that they can have positive, rewarding interactions with people once they come off the streets.
Q: How do you feel this mentoring role has been beneficial for the youth?
A: They get their lives back. Although they are kids they’ve had their childhood robbed from them and forced into adult situations prematurely. By acting as a positive adult role model, they get to have fun and be real kids. They also learn to trust others, gain self-confidence and grow to know that a world exists where they can accomplish any goal and leave a full life without fear.
Q: How has this experience impacted you?
A: It gave me big dose of perspective! I used to sometimes think “poor me” when I looked at what I didn’t have (fancy car, big paycheck, etc). Now I realize how blessed and privileged I have been and how important it is to help others.
Q: Any advice/tips for others in mentoring roles?
A: Being a “role model” doesn’t mean you have to be—or pretend to be—perfect. Specifically in dealing with young people; just be yourself. Always work hard to set a good example, but don’t be afraid to be silly and let your personality shine through. Kids—and everybody else—will love you for it.
