In 2017, Kristen<\/a> joined Apex\u2019s Middle School Mentoring Program<\/a>, where she was matched with her mentee, Priscilla. Their bond quickly grew, and Kristen continued mentoring Priscilla through high school until her graduation in 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Being a mentor taught Kristen the importance of listening closely to what young people need. As Priscilla entered her junior year, Kristen asked directly how she could best support her. \u201cShe told me she didn\u2019t need more tutoring; she had that already. What she wanted was emotional support, someone fun, a distraction from the stress of high school and college prep.\u201d That conversation reshaped Kristen\u2019s approach. \u201cSometimes the most impactful thing you can do is simply show up consistently and be present,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Kristen also found that mentorship deepened her connection to her own identity. Growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood, she often felt disconnected from her cultural heritage and Asian background. Through Apex, she not only supported a younger generation of Asian American youth but reclaimed a sense of connection to her family\u2019s immigrant story. \u201cApex filled a missing piece for me,\u201d she shares. \u201cIt created a community I didn\u2019t have when I was growing up.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Two years into Apex, Kristen joined the \uc5b4\uc18c\uc2dc\uc5d0\uc774\ud2b8 \ubcf4\ub4dc<\/a>, looking for ways to strengthen her impact. \u201cThe Associate Board enriches the volunteer experience, connects with staff and the Board of Directors, and brings in new voices to support Apex\u2019s mission,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Apex](\"https:\/\/apexforyouth.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/220226-Apex-for-Youth-HSMP-LeFrak-Ice-Skating32-1300x1040.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLeadership on the Associate Board<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"Apex](\"https:\/\/apexforyouth.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/BFA_49229_7035904-1-1300x867.jpg\")
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