Amachi Pittsburgh began in 2003 and is modeled after Philadelphia's Amachi Initiative, relying on a broad partnership of faith-based non-profit agencies to provide mentors for children of prisoners. Caring men and women are carefully screened and matched with the numerous children of prisoners in their local communities to help build trust, self-esteem, better school attendance and study habits simply by being a good friend to these “children of promise.”
- What is the meaning of Amachi?
“Who knows what God has brought us through this child?” This is the English translation of the Nigerian Ibo word “Amachi,” and it forms the centerpiece of our mission at Amachi Pittsburgh – to enable young people to realize their God-given potential, even though one or both parents may be incarcerated and their home life may be in crisis. - Who are Children of Promise?
Because all children have great inherent value, we refer to children of incarcerated parents as “children of promise.” It is our mutual hope and our expectation that, through this mentoring initiative, the God-given potential, purpose and value of children of promise will be recognized, protected and nurtured through the caring support and guidance of carefully screened and trained mentors from local congregations and community organizations. It is our hope that the positive impact of mentoring relationships will better prepare these children to face the challenges associated with parental incarceration. - How does Amachi Pittsburgh reach out to children of promise?
Amachi Pittsburgh reaches out to children of promise with open hearts and hands to guide, nurture and share the gift of time.
- We mentor children and youth ages 4 to 18 that have one or both parents incarcerated.
- We serve children with special needs.
- We embrace other children in the family.
- We provide resources and support for congregations and organizations to implement the Amachi mentoring initiative.
- We train, supervise and support mentors and mentoring programs.
- We help coordinate referrals of children and assistance in matching them with mentors.
- We assist in obtaining resources for eligible families.
- What is the importance of mentoring?
According to recent statistics, approximately two million minors in the United States have at least one parent in a correctional facility. These children suffer a disruption in the relationship with their parent, and they often struggle with the economic, social and emotional burdens created by incarceration. Mentors can make a difference by:
- Challenging young people to excel academically and in extracurricular activities that promote healthy social interaction, team-building, collaboration and mutual benefit.
- Providing an opportunity for children to develop a trusting relationship with a supportive, caring adult.
- Helping young people improve their relationships with others.
- Working alongside caregivers to reinforce a stable environment grounded in values and a belief in family.
- Exposing young people to educational and cultural events and opportunities
When successfully implemented, mentoring programs for children of incarcerated parents have the potential to improve socio-emotional skills and produce stronger, healthier relationships between children their peers and authority figures, leading to better outcomes in social and academic competence. - How can I support Amachi Pittsburgh as a mentor, volunteer or donor?
If you would like to support Amachi Pittsburgh, please contact us at 412.281.3752. - Is my church an Amachi Pittsburgh partner?
Click here to see our list of congregations, organizations and partners.