Building Brighter Futures
The mission of EYMP is to empower youth in Kitsap County to make positive life choices that enable them to maximize their potential.
Robin Carson - Founder and Director of Empowering Youth Mentor Program (EYMP)
Robin Carson holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) degree with a certification in school counseling. She brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to youth advocacy and has been running mentor programs for 24 years, including both her previous role and current program
During her time with Kitsap County Juvenile and Family Court Services, she co-facilitated Aggression Replacement Training for a decade and managed a mentor program for 17 years. Her extensive work also included providing Multisystemic Therapy and drug screening services. She has served as a school counselor, working with alternative schools and a self-contained program, offering guidance and support to students in need.
In 2018, Robin founded the Empowering Youth Mentor Program (EYMP) in Bremerton, WA, after 17 years of experience running the Juvenile Services Mentoring Program.
What is Empowering Youth Mentor Program?
EYMP is a one-to-one, community-based program dedicated to supporting youth aged 8-21 in Kitsap County. The program pairs dedicated volunteer mentors with mentees through thoughtful matching based on shared interests and location. These well-trained mentors serve as positive role models, offering friendship and support to young individuals, many of whom have experienced trauma. Referrals come from professionals in the juvenile justice system, schools, and social services, such as DCYF, but anyone can refer a youth.
Why mentoring?
Mentoring through EYMP offers numerous benefits for both mentors and mentees. For mentors, it provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on a young person’s life, share knowledge and experience, and develop a sense of fulfillment from contributing to the community. For mentees, having a mentor means receiving guidance, support, and encouragement from a trusted adult, which can lead to increased self-esteem, improved social skills, and better decision-making abilities. The strong, positive relationships formed through mentoring can be life-changing, helping youth to navigate challenges, set and achieve goals, and build a brighter future.
Robin’s commitment to empowering at-risk youth and fostering positive life choices stands at the core of EYMP’s mission.
Why should you apply for the Empowering Youth Mentorship Program?
As a mentee you will:
Discuss your dreams, goals, and experiences, and get fresh perspectives.
Receive help with life skills, school, and career planning.
Enjoy community events and activities with your mentor.
Have fun while building a lasting friendship
As a mentor you will:
Spend at least 4 hours a month with your mentee, out in the community, over a minimum of one year.
Share your personal goals, values, and life experiences.
Help your mentee develop essential life skills and achieve academic success.
Introduce your mentee to events and activities. Have fun and build a lasting friendship
I joined the Empowering Youth Mentor Program a few months ago, and it's been great. My mentor has been helping me with school and personal challenges. I'm already feeling more prepared for the future. I recommend this program!
Being a mentor in the Empowering Youth Mentor Program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It's amazing to see the growth and development in the youth I work with. The program offers excellent resources and support for mentors, making it easy to build strong, meaningful connections. I love being able to make a positive impact. This program truly makes a difference!
The Empowering Youth Mentor Program has been great! My mentor has been an amazing support, helping with school projects, career and personal advice. I didn't think that my mentor would be such a good friend and that we'd have so much fun!