What does being a mentor for LAUNCH mean to you?

Being a mentor for L.A.U.N.C.H. means I get the very fortunate opportunity to be a positive role model for these young men like the great men have done for me in my life. It means I can use the lessons I’ve learned over the years and impart the wisdom I’ve gained from those experiences onto these young men in a concentrated effort to build them into better men; better equipped to tackle the world and it’s many challenges. It means showing these young men with our presence and the examples we set that no matter how hard and brutal this world can be that there are people who care about them and their well being. My hope is that one day these young men will carry on the legacy of mentorship and this cycle of love and guidance will continue inspiring many generations to come. 

What part of your role do you find most fulfilling?

The part of my role that I find most fulfilling is being a part of a well oiled team of awesome mentors who consistently show up in these kids lives to impart knowledge and discipline onto them while also facilitating fun events. No one could do this alone, but coming together as a unit to achieve a common goal is very fulfilling. 

How long have you been with LAUNCH?

I’ve been a mentor with L.A.U.N.C.H. since August of 2022.

What do you do when you're not mentoring for LAUNCH?

I am passionate about film/video and music making as well and run a YouTube channel called Paddy Stax Productions. Being outside in nature whether it’s chilling at bell isle, going on a hike, or playing disc golf brings me much peace and happiness. I’m also constantly listening to music. Cornhole is another hobby of mine. I’m in a league with my dad and some neighbors and our team name is Hole My Sack. Carry on. 

What do you most hope LAUNCH mentees will get out of this year's program?

I hope the L.A.U.N.C.H mentees get a lot out of this program, but it’s unrealistic to believe that it will all happen right away. I do believe we are planting the seeds for fruit that has the power and durability to last a lifetime. That being said I think a fair goal is that they walk away from this program with added confidence and empathy for others. We are already seeing these things come to fruition and it’s truly a beautiful thing. I hope they will be able to better stand up for themselves, each other, and the values we have taught them in order to be beacons of light and strength in a sometimes scary and uncertain world.