Western Youth Network expands mentorship program to support youth from substance-affected families

A new mentoring initiative aimed at supporting youth from substance-affected families is gaining momentum in Ashe County, thanks to funding from opioid settlement resources. The Western Youth Network, which has been active in the region for five years, is spearheading this program to provide mentorship for children who lack stable adult figures in their lives.

During a recent county commission meeting, Executive Director of the Western Youth Network highlighted the urgent need for mentorship, stating, “Children from substance-affected families need to know that there is somebody out there who is safe and stable.” The program aims to connect these youth with caring adults who can offer guidance and a positive outlook on life.

Angela McMahon, a seasoned mentor coordinator, introduced Julia, the newly hired Ashe County Mentoring Coordinator, who has already begun making significant strides since her start in January. Julia reported that the program has received seven referrals from local agencies, with six of those youth coming from homes impacted by substance misuse. “We’ve been able to serve three youth since funding began, and 100% of those youth come from families with substance misuse in the home,” she noted.

The mentoring program encourages volunteers to commit to at least eight hours a month for a year, fostering consistent relationships that can profoundly impact the lives of these children. The initiative is not only about providing mentorship but also about building community awareness and support.

In addition to the mentoring program, the meeting also addressed the ongoing challenges related to housing and opioid use in Ashe County. Sean Morris, the street outreach coordinator for the Hospitality House, discussed efforts to assist homeless individuals at risk of opioid overdose. He emphasized the need for increased rental assistance rates, particularly following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which has exacerbated housing shortages.

Morris pointed out that the current fair market rental rates in Ashe County are significantly lower than in neighboring areas, making it difficult for individuals to secure housing. “That $300 difference can be a lifesaver for those restarting their lives,” he explained.

Ashe County officials are actively working to address these pressing issues, with plans to conduct a needs assessment in collaboration with local researchers to better understand the community's challenges and develop effective strategies moving forward. The meeting underscored a collective commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations in Ashe County through mentorship and housing support.