Women2Women is an adult mentoring program that uses one-on-one relationships to help women reach their personal goals. The initiative evolved from the Coalition of Chautauqua County Women & Girls, in partnership with United Way of Southern Chautauqua County.

Marlyn moved to Jamestown six years ago with the ambition to learn the English language, find a job and obtain a driver’s license. She came to Jamestown from the Dominican Republic without any knowledge of the English language.

Marlyn’s determination to invest in herself and become a successful resident of the community has been the driving force behind her.

Most recently, Marlyn has achieved her goals but not without the help of others. She joined Women2Women, an adult mentoring program that uses one-on-one relationships to help women reach their personal goals. This initiative evolved from the Coalition of Chautauqua County Women & Girls, in partnership with United Way of Southern Chautauqua County.

Marlyn’s employment at the Jamestown Community Learning Council is where she learned about Women2Women and ultimately inspired her to join. She meets with her coaches, Elva and Carol, monthly to simply have a conversation about what is happening in her life. Marlyn emphasizes the positive support system she receives through Women2Women.

“This program helps me with all the pieces of my life including my personal relationships, job and future aspirations,” she said. “I feel that I have friends to talk to and I feel more confident in the direction I am going.”

Currently, the Women2Women program has 10 women serving as coaches. Deb Kathman, Women2Women coordinator, provides leadership and support to ensure the coaches and participants are getting the most out of the program.

Kathman states, “The structure of the program is all about a conversation. Participants enter into a one year commitment with the coaches which allows sufficient time to develop a relationship. One of the most significant benefits is simply having someone to talk to. Sometimes that is all our women and girls need.”

There is no cost to participate in the Women2Women program. Typically, a participant would meet with a trained coach about four hours per month. The coaches play a vital role in the lives of each participant.

“My coaches have helped connect me to resources within the community. They truly care about my well-being and guide me to the places I need to go to be successful. I now have a job, my driver’s license, and fluently speak English,” stated Marlyn.

“Our time with Marlyn is inspiring and it feels good knowing that we are helping a woman in our community achieve her goals,” Carol said.

The Women2Women adult mentoring program is in its third year and seeking more community involvement. As a way to bring awareness to this program and raise funds, United Way of Southern Chautauqua County will be participating in a 24-hour online fundraiser called, Spring It On, which will be held Tuesday at 6 p.m. and ending Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Please visit the United Way of Southern Chautauqua County Facebook page and the Coalition of Chautauqua County Women & Girls Facebook page to stay connected throughout the event to learn more about the Women2Women program and to make an online donation. All of the proceeds will support activities that the coach and participant will do together to help build their relationship.

To become a Women2Women coach or participant, visit www.uwayscc.org for more information.