Cynthia Chin and her mentee Ashlee Suggs have maintained the longest mentoring relationship since the inception of SOHO-Space of Her Own – 12 years! The two took a train to Richmond for last week’s “Power of Mentoring” event and were excited when Cynthia received the 2019 Virginia Mentoring Partnership Outstanding Community Mentor Award. When asked how she avoided risky behaviors that surrounded her throughout childhood, Ashley, now 21, responded, “I had people in my life like my mentor.” The first year of their relationship was challenging because Cynthia and Ashley are both on the quiet side and take time to warm up to people. However, they bonded over SOHO’s art and carpentry projects and while working together making a lemon battery for Ashley’s science class. Their relationship continued to develop as they participated in a SOHO Book Club hosted by Wright to Read. When it was time for senior prom, Ashley had saved her money and reached out to Cynthia to help find the perfect dress. Throughout the years, Cynthia and Ashley have remained close and connect regularly. This year, Cynthia helped Ashley access career coaching and, after Ashley experienced a sudden loss, Cynthia provided guidance and support. Ashley now has her own home, which Cynthia is helping her to spruce up as she did 12 years ago during Ashley’s Space of Her Own bedroom transformation. Cynthia is an outstanding role model and first-rate mentor who also serves as Creative Director on the board of Space of Her Own, Inc, working to impact the lives of hundreds of Alexandria girls.
– Linda Odell
SOHO Founder & Executive Director
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