Supporter spotlight: Joe Masi

Meet Joe Masi, one of our incredible Dare to Dream Mentors!
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Joe is a local facilitator and coach who brings groups and individuals to the next level in their work and lives, which can be anything from building self confidence to working on how to authentically connect with others. 

​Joe found his way to Cleveland Angels after meeting our executive director, Gretchen, at a charity event. After learning about Cleveland Angels, he knew he wanted to be a part of it in any way possible. He had always wanted to work with youth impacted by the foster care system, so it was the perfect opportunity

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Joe has now been an active Dare to Dream mentor for the past four months and was matched with a youth who has decided to call him "Coach" due to their shared love of basketball. ​

"I love what Cleveland Angels is doing for the foster care community. From the moment I began working with Gretchen and Apryl, I felt and have been inspired by the immense love and devotion they have for the children and families in the foster care system. I am so happy to be a part of the Dare to Dream mission."

When asked what experiences have stood out to him so far as a Dare to Dream mentor, he said, “It was probably the first time I met my mentee. He's not big on eye contact but there was a moment where he locked eyes with me and smiled and I smiled back. It was like it was his way of saying, 'I trust you.' It was a pretty great way to start things off.” 

Joe has also found it very rewarding to know that his mentee feels heard and seen. Joe says, “He loves to talk with me and for a 13-year-old boy to want to do that is a pretty good sign he feels comfortable and valued.”

Finally, Joe shared why he thinks mentorship is so valuable for youth, especially for those who have experienced foster care. He said, “It sends a very powerful message of, "you matter' to a youth. On some level they feel important, seen and heard. I also think adults have a responsibility to make sure that children, especially those who don't have adults in their life, are shown their worth and receive guidance towards healthy and loving ways of living. It also provides a consistent level of structure in their life which is an important part of developing well in formative years.”

​Thank you Joe for everything you are doing for the Cleveland Angels community and your mentee. We cannot wait to see your relationship grow and blossom into something that will hopefully impact both of your lives for the better. 

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