256. Mentoring in Public Schools with John Shearer of Academy 4

256. Mentoring in Public Schools with John Shearer of Academy 4

Author: Zach Garza & You Can Mentor: Faith-Based Mentoring for Churches, Non-Profits, Youth Ministers, and Teachers January 16, 2025 Duration: 54:49

In this episode of the You Can Mentor Podcast, Zachary Garza interviews John Shearer, leader of Academy 4, a nonprofit mentoring over 4,200 fourth graders annually by partnering with local churches to build sustainable relationships with schools and families. John shares how his cancer journey led him to nonprofit work and highlights Academy Four’s programs, which equip children with leadership skills and foster community engagement. With a focus on love, service, and long-term commitment, the episode explores how mentoring transforms both children and volunteers, demonstrating the power of intentional relationships to create lasting change. https://academy4.org/

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Key Points

  • Academy Four's programs include Spark Clubs and mentoring sessions.
  • The mentoring program helps children develop leadership skills.
  • Parents play a crucial role in their children's education and development.
  • Academy Four aims to equip parents through community programs.
  • The organization has a waiting list of schools wanting to join.
  • John believes in the power of community involvement for positive change. Sustainability is key for community partnerships.
  • Long-term commitment leads to deeper impact.
  • Mentoring is about building relationships, not just numbers.
  • Volunteers often receive more than they give.
  • Love and service can transform communities.
  • Every child deserves to feel known and cared for.
  • Effective mentoring requires intentionality and structure.
  • Community engagement can break down barriers.
  • Relationships are reciprocal; both mentors and mentees benefit.
  • The mission is to love and serve, not to fix.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Academy Four and John Shearer
05:07 John's Journey to Academy Four
09:56 The Mission and Programs of Academy Four
15:07 Building Relationships with Churches and Schools
24:55 Building Sustainable Community Partnerships
29:54 Long-Term Commitment to Schools
35:57 The Power of Love and Service
41:48 Transformative Relationships in Mentoring
47:52 Community Impact Through Mentoring

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Also, check out our National Christian Mentoring Gathering, which is April 16-18, 2025 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 
Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com


Hosted by Zach Garza, You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast is a conversation for anyone guiding young people within a faith context. This isn't about abstract theory; it's a practical resource built for the real challenges faced by youth ministers, church volunteers, teachers, and parents. Each episode focuses on the tangible aspects of building relationships that matter, offering grounded advice on how to listen, encourage, and walk alongside the next generation. The core of this podcast is a shared belief that effective mentoring flows from a foundation of loving God and loving others, aiming to make disciples right where you live. We delve into the questions you actually have, because your input directly shapes the discussions. Many episodes are crafted from real questions submitted by listeners, making the content immediately relevant to your own mentoring relationships. Whether you're navigating a difficult conversation, seeking creative ways to connect, or looking to sustain your own spiritual health while pouring into others, this space is designed to equip and encourage you. The goal is to see Christian mentors not just manage, but truly thrive in their vital roles. Tune in for honest stories, actionable strategies, and a sense of community, all aimed at helping you cultivate a more meaningful and impactful mentoring practice.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

You Can Mentor: A Christian Youth Mentoring Podcast
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