PROFILES IN MENTORING

Lon Haber

Occupation: Actor
Years with YSF: 3
Most Recent School: Cheremoya
Favorite Movie: Young Frankenstein
Favorite Book (or book recommendation): Das Energi (by Paul Williams)
Name of your favorite teacher growing up: Mr. Lyons (US History at Andover)
Why do you mentor? Children have the freshest and most unhindered perspectives, and I enjoy being a part of that. I get a chance to make a difference in a 9 or 10 year-old’s life, to show them anything is possible if they allow themselves to be open to achieving and accepting of themselves, at a time in their lives when outside influences begin to shape them. If they go away with anything, I want it to be having faith in themselves.
What was the last script you mentored? What was it about? I was a Mentor at Wilshire Crest (under the amazing direction of Head Mentor Abbe Meryl) where my Young Storyteller wrote a script called, “Jack Star,” about a Lakers vs. Celtics final championship game where Jack Nicholson jumps in to save the day after Lebron James is injured and in the end gets signed by Phil Jackson and wins an award. The lesson of the script was to “give actors a chance to play on your team, because they might win the game.”
Is there a moment that stands out to you in your experience as a mentor? In a group circle on the last session day, while sharing, I asked the kids, “why did you want to join Young Storytellers?” One young storyteller, Levi, said, “I’ve been waiting a whole year to be in Young Storytellers and I’ve been developing my idea all of this time. My Mom works at a Hollywood Producer’s office and I’ve already invited him to the Big Show.”
What would you tell others about YSF? It’s a wonderful organization that gives kids a chance to explore and realize their abilities/talents, and true selves.
How does YSF affect you, and how do you think it affects other mentors? It makes me feel like I’m making a positive difference in the lives of many kids and many grown-ups. I notice that everyone who participates has this sort of “pleasantly surprised” grin on their faces throughout the entire process down to the Big Show.
What advice/trick of the trade would you offer other mentors? Remain open, grounded and close to your sense of humor. Be ready and able to change your plans and still stick to your guns. Balance friendliness with authority in a way that let’s everyone know there’s someone in charge and that there’s a plan. You’ve got to inspire, create organization, and foster a sense of trust and honesty. You’re learning as much as you’re teaching, if not more.

PROFILES IN MENTORING

Lon Haber

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