Jake’s Story
Overcoming Challenges Through Youth Mentoring
Jake grew up in inner-city Dublin, confronting the same intense pressures that many young people in his community face every day. By third year, these challenges had escalated, making it increasingly difficult for him to stay on track. He became disengaged from education, got involved in altercations, and was headed down a path that could have led to serious trouble. “I was like a ghost in the hall,” he recalled, describing his sense of isolation and hopelessness as he wandered through school corridors, disconnected from the traditional educational system.
This reality is all too familiar in Jake’s area, where limited opportunities push many young people toward the lure of quick money through illicit activities. “Everybody wants money, but the way to get it isn’t the right way,” Jake explained, highlighting how involvement in drug-related activities often starts as early as 14 or 15. By age 15, many of his peers were already caught up in this lifestyle, pressured to conform to a path that offers quick rewards but significant risks. “It’s like either do that, get a good job, or keep doing that and hope you don’t get nicked,” he said, revealing the stark choices he and his friends faced.
Fortunately, Jake’s trajectory began to change when he was referred to YMCA Dublin’s Alternative Suspension (AS) Programme. Designed to support students struggling in the traditional school setting, the AS Programme gave Jake essential structure and a safe space to reflect on his choices. However, it soon became clear that Jake needed more than the structured support provided by the AS Programme—he needed a mentor to guide him through the personal challenges he faced and offer consistent, reliable support.
That’s when Jake was introduced to PlusOne Youth Mentoring, which marked a turning point in his life. Supported by a dedicated mentor and guided by the programme coordinator, Paul, Jake found a network that truly understood him, and listened without judgement. “Paul is one of the few people I actually told the full story to,” Jake shared, highlighting the deep trust and connection he developed. The team helped him navigate life’s complexities, offering guidance and support that empowered Jake to reflect, learn, and grow. “Every time something happened, instead of just reacting, Paul would ask me, ‘What could you have done differently?’ and it made me think,” Jake said, describing how this approach helped him build self-awareness and emotional resilience.
The impact of this support has been profound. Jake credits the programme with helping him stay grounded and focused on his goals. “This one-to-one is what keeps me from losing the plot as much as I used to,” he admitted, acknowledging how the steady presence of a mentor provided stability in his chaotic world. For Jake, these sessions were more than just meetings; they were a lifeline. “There’s no feeling on earth like it,” he said, describing the sense of relief and clarity he felt after each mentoring session.
Encouraged by his mentors, Jake is now pursuing education through Youthreach, a programme designed for early school leavers, where he is once again engaging with his studies and setting new goals. “I’m back on track now, focusing on what I want to do with my life,” he said. The opportunity to continue his education in a supportive environment has been a significant step forward for him.
Jake’s story is not just about personal growth; it’s also a testament to the effectiveness of targeted youth interventions in high-risk environments. His experience highlights the need for more investment in programmes like AS and PlusOne, which provide support that addresses the broader social and emotional challenges young people face. “Go in with an open mind,” he advises others who might be in similar situations, emphasising the importance of giving oneself a chance to see beyond immediate circumstances.
“I was lost, but now I have a direction.”
Jake speaks candidly about the pressures in his community, where a lack of positive role models and scarce support structures make it hard for youths to resist negative influences. “Since you’re 15, you see lads dropping out of school, and you get dragged into the wrong crowd. Next thing you know, you’re involved in things you shouldn’t be,” he said. He recognises the lack of positive role models and the scarcity of support structures that make it difficult for many youths to resist negative influences.
Jake’s involvement with YMCA Dublin not only helped him find stability but also allowed him to explore his interests and envision a positive future. He has discovered a passion for mechanics and childcare, fields he might pursue as career paths. “I love working with engines, and kids love me,” he said with a smile, reflecting on how far he has come.
Jake’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right support and opportunities, even those most at risk can rewrite their narratives. His transformation from a disengaged student on the brink of trouble to a hopeful young man with aspirations is a testament to what can be achieved when communities invest in their youth. “I was lost, but now I have a direction,” he said, summing up his journey. Jake’s story is one of hope and resilience, proving that change is possible, even in the most challenging environments.
Jake’s story is just one example of how targeted interventions can change the lives of young people in high-risk environments. Programmes like AS and PlusOne don’t just support individuals; they strengthen entire communities by providing youth with alternatives to negative influences, fostering resilience, and opening pathways to brighter futures. Continued support and funding for these initiatives are crucial to ensure that more young people like Jake can access the resources and mentorship they need to overcome challenges and build a positive future. Investing in these programmes is investing in the potential of our communities.