We are so happy to celebrate Bridge Mentoring student Abby’s December, 2024 graduation with a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven. Pictured here with Bill and Annmarie Harlor, Abby’s milestone is not just a reflection of hard work, but of the power of mentorship, community support, and the incredible difference a single person can make in the life of a young person.
Abby’s story began four years ago when she found herself facing unexpected challenges at a time when most young adults are looking ahead to the future with hope and excitement. Feeling uncertain and overwhelmed, Abby was introduced to SOWMA by our founder, Cheryl Opper. It was here that Abby was paired with Robin Gilbert, a mentor whose guidance would become the cornerstone of her journey to success.
Through their partnership, Robin helped Abby not only navigate the complex world of college applications but also to believe in her own potential. Together, they identified colleges that would be a good fit for Abby’s goals and worked tirelessly to secure scholarships that would turn her dreams into a reality. One of those scholarships was SOWMA’s Soaring Scholars Scholarship, which Abby became the very first recipient of in 2021. This scholarship, launched by Bill and Annmarie Harlor, is privately funded by the Harlors and their friends and family. It’s awarded to young people like Abby who are actively involved in our Bridge Mentoring Program, a program dedicated to helping youth overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.
“It was so rewarding to work with Abby,” said Gilbert. “She was motivated and willing to do whatever was needed to reach her goals,” Gilbert added.
When we asked Abby about her journey, she shared, “I am so grateful for the emotional and financial support I received from the SOWMA team, especially Robin and the Harlors. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to attend college, much less earn my degree. They believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.”
As Brittany O’Hare, Director of the Bridge Mentoring Program, said, “Abby’s success is a true testament to what happens when dedication, mentorship, and community come together. She has worked so hard, and it has been a privilege to watch her grow and flourish.”
But Abby’s story doesn’t end here. She will continue her education at the University of New Haven, pursuing a Master’s Degree in Chemistry. We know this is just the beginning for Abby, and we’re excited to see where her hard work and determination will take her next.
Abby’s journey is a beautiful reminder of the profound impact that mentorship can have, and it’s also a reminder of how much more we can accomplish when we come together as a community. Whether it’s through offering your time as a mentor or making a donation to support our programs, you too can make a difference in the life of a young person like Abby.
If you are inspired by Abby’s story and want to get involved, we encourage you to reach out to us. Together, we can help more young people rise above their challenges and achieve their dreams.
Congratulations, Abby! We are beyond proud of you and can’t wait to see all that you will achieve in the future.
