Mentor Journey
This month’s Covenant House Alaska mentor spotlight is Tom Homza! Tom has served as an exceptional Rights of Passage mentor since December 2018.
Tom’s motivation to become a Covenant House Alaska mentor stems from our mission statement.
In the Covenant House mission statement is a phrase about serving youth “with absolute respect.” I feel this is a critical part of any pathway to success in helping those needing a lift: respect for those you serve.
Tom
Relentless Engagement
Tom mentored a young man from Covenant House Alaska who struggled with substance abuse and a traumatic brain injury. As soon as Tom began working with this young man, he relentlessly showed up looking for him, waiting for him, and engaging in the moment — no matter what.
By far my favorite part of spending time with him has been watching his success. His will to be better and his dedication to his recovery have been an inspiration to me.
Tom
Once he officially entered treatment, Tom consistently visited, called, and wrote. Later, the young man accepted residence at a treatment center in California. Upon graduation, Tom was added to his aftercare plan for reentry.
Lasting Impact
Upon graduation, Tom supported him through his reintroduction to his hometown Seward. Tom visited him in Seward, taking him on hikes and bike rides. He even obtained a bike donation!
He has remained in close contact, encouraging him to apply for jobs and has remained a reference for the young man.
Tom is everything a mentor can and should be. He has been involved with staff, an advocate to the community, a consistent loving support for the young man and truly the biggest cheerleader. This young man would not be where he is today without Tom.
Nicole Stuemke, Program Coordinator, Rights of Passage
Tom is a very humble giver and this young man, as well as Covenant House Alaska as a whole, are very lucky to have encountered his presence.
Thank You, Tom!
The staff at Covenant House are very special, caring folks; every one of them. I’m very proud to work alongside such wonderful people of high integrity, even if it’s for short periods of time.
Tom
When asked to review the efficacy of our services to young people in Alaska, he generously responded:
Your services are a literal life-saver for many youth in Anchorage. Anchorage is an extremely challenging city to experience homelessness in.
Tom
Volunteer Today
Thank you, Tom, for your generous services. The youth and staff at Covenant House Alaska value you so much.
If you are interested in volunteering through our mentorship program, email volunteer@covenanthouseak.org
