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Jamie Smith has seen the results firsthand of what giving can do in a person’s life. Over the past year, Smith has mentored Fidel, a ninth grade student at Raines High School, as part of the United Way Stein Fellows program. The Stein Fellowship was created through a generous gift of $1 million by David and Linda Stein, United Way Tocqueville members, those who give $10,000 or more annually. Their gift also provided funding for programs that enable students to achieve, as well as drop out prevention programs for community youth. Through the Stein Fellowship members of United Way’s young professional group, Atlantic Circle, are connected with established community leaders to promote philanthropy and leadership. In addition, each Fellow mentors a student who attends a United Way Full Service School. Stein Fellows participate in an in-depth orientation to learn about United Way’s impact in the community, attend educational forums around the focus issue of Helping Students Achieve, and keep a journal of their mentorship experience. Research shows that if a young student has a mentor they are less likely to skip school, use illegal drugs or begin drinking alcohol. “Fidel is a bright young man,” says Smith, Managing Director, Presser Lahnen & Edelman. “He has a big interest in math and being a CPA; it just seemed to be the perfect fit.” “The Stein Fellowship program allows United Way’s young professionals to become engaged in the community, grow professionally, and help First Coast youth stay on track for graduation,” explains Joanna Edgell, Stein Fellowship Coordinator. “Jamie was part of our inaugural class and we’re fortunate to have volunteers like him, who want to give back through mentoring.” Smith sees a lot of potential in Fidel during their weekly meetings. Whether they are talking about an upcoming math quiz or the college he wants to attend, Fidel knows that he can be successful in whatever he sets out to do. When asked what has been the most rewarding aspect of being a mentor, Smith replies, “ When I hear that he’s [Fidel] made a good decision or he tells me that my advice helped him get through a problem; that’s when I know he’s listening and I’m making a difference.” To find out more about United Way’s Stein Fellowship program, please contact Joanna Edgell at 904-390-4006. >> Your Impact in our community 
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