Dave’s House resident Colin and Champions Mentor Jim DeMark recently caught up while enjoying some time at the driving range together.

Our residents have the support of their dedicated behavioral health services provider case managers, who provide ongoing mental health care, life skills development training, access to community resources and 24/7 crisis intervention and stabilization services if needed.

Thanks to the funding of the Universal Foundation, Dave’s House had the opportunity to launch our Champions Mentorship Program, which allows residents to receive additional life skills support from trained volunteer mentors. These mentors help our residents continue to improve their daily living routines, overcome obstacles, improve social interaction skills and build personal relationships.

“As they continue to rebuild their lives with the support of a stable home, residents often need additional help in learning ways to establish friendships, expand their skill sets and live active lives,” said Champions Mentor Jim DeMark. “As a mentor, I help some of the Orlando residents prep for job interviews and manage their daily lives better. I also encourage them to learn new skills at their day programs. I am so impressed by their commitment to improving their lives, helping each other and volunteering at area non-profits,” he said.

Mentors typically possess mental health/behavioral support backgrounds or past involvement. They undergo training through Aspire Health for our Central Florida program. Dave’s House is working to expand this program, adding mentors and skill set areas of focus to help our residents further. Jim DeMark is also Program Chair on the Dave’s House Board of Directors.

We extend a special thanks to Champions Mentors Karen Shrontz and Roy Carter who have played critical roles in launching this mentoring program. We sincerely thank the Universal Foundation, all our behavioral health partners and volunteer mentors who are dedicated to our residents’ success!