Asheville Parks & Recreation’s Go! Guiding Others youth mentoring program has received positive feedback from the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) following a recent monitoring site visit. The program, supported by an NRPA grant, was reviewed for its management and community impact.
Go! Guiding Others provides group mentoring within Asheville Parks & Recreation (APR) Afterschool programs, with APR staff serving as mentors. The initiative has been well received by staff, parents, and youth.
The program has expanded into the school system. Angel Redmond, Go! Guiding Others Mentoring Program Coordinator, runs a version at Asheville Middle School. Originally created as an alternative to suspension for students caught vaping, it is now available to all interested students during school hours. It focuses on substance use education and prevention in a setting that encourages open conversation. Principal Blair Johnston told NRPA that Angel has done a “remarkable job building strong, trusting relationships” and helped students make “noticeable progress in their confidence and decision-making.”
At William Randolph Campus, an alternative learning high school, the program supports students facing behavioral and attendance challenges. It includes partnerships with mental health initiatives such as Project ALERT. Principal Carrie Buchanan said, “Our students love meeting with Go! Guiding Others mentors each Monday morning. They appreciate them and their sincere, direct work with them…they are cultivating resilience, confidence, and a sense of community.”
A youth advisory group called TEENS: Teens Encouraging Each Other’s Needs & Strengths emerged from these efforts. This group gives teens input into programming despite early obstacles like Tropical Storm Helene.
According to the NRPA report, APR maintains strong administrative practices for youth programs including policies for child safety and appropriate staff interactions. Record-keeping is emphasized to protect participant information while mentors undergo thorough screening processes. The team also collects data to support ongoing improvement.
Angel Redmond highlighted the importance of trust-building: “Relationship building is a slow process that must happen first.”
APR Director D. Tyrell McGirt said: “We are incredibly proud of Angel’s team for their innovative and impactful work with the Go! Guiding Others program. This is more than just a professional accomplishment for them and this program is full of love and care. Their commitment to fostering positive relationships, promoting healthy habits, and empowering youth is truly making a difference in our community. I can’t wait to see the continued impact as the program grows through their coordination, partnerships, and work with young people.”
Go! Guiding Others is one among several offerings by APR designed to promote wellness in Asheville through activities such as games, clubs, exercise classes, festivals, arts programs and more.
