This past MLK Jr. Day, Youth Connections Inc. held a service cleanup day. The organization paired with East Point First Mallalieu United Methodist Church to help cleanup the surrounding neighborhoods.

Projects like that one are just one of many for the 501 (c) 3 organization. Youth Connections is a mentoring program that matches mentors to children ages 4 to 18 who have at least one incarcerated parent. They service children throughout the metro area, who are referred by local churches and schools.

The mentors and mentees participate in many activities throughout the year including free tickets to Atlanta Hawks and Thrashers games, through a partnership between the teams and the organization. Mentors, who have to be at least 18 or older, are asked to spend at least four hours a month with the child.

Mary Coleman, case manager, said she has seen a definite change in the children since being matched with a mentor.

“They have become more active in their communities and their grades and attitudes have improved,” said Ms. Coleman.

Along with spending time with the mentors, they hold workshops on etiquette and how to keep a clean background for the children.

To become a mentor, visit www.youth-connect.net or call (404) 474-7479.