10 Years, 10 Stories: Jumping in to make a difference
Dwayne Barker
More than 70% of mentees in United Way’s Be a Middle School Mentor program have never had a day of suspension from school
As a parent and community volunteer, Dwayne Barker knows it’s all about the students.
When Dwayne’s son was in third grade at Pittsburgh King, he and several other parents wanted to help the school and students create a stronger, more collaborative environment. That’s when they created the Parent Community Volunteer Network (PCVN), a group of volunteers who support school staff and students.
PCVN immediately raised their hands when they heard United Way’s Be a Middle School Mentor program was looking for volunteer mentors. “We saw great value in providing strong role models for local students and felt the opportunity aligned with the PCVN’s goals,” Dwayne shared.
What started as a couple of volunteers mentoring at Pittsburgh King soon expanded into several other local schools. “When we were told more schools needed mentors, we jumped in to help,” Dwayne said.
The positive impact of mentoring can even be seen in Dwayne’s own child. “My son’s mentor has given him some great wisdom and advice, which I appreciate,” Dwayne added.
Dwayne hopes more volunteers will join the fight and give back to the community and its students.
United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is honored to celebrate 10 impactful years of our Be a Middle School Mentor program. You can make a difference for local kids by becoming a mentor today.
