A Life Coach’s First-Person Experience

Barry Motes has been a Life Coach with Orphan Care Alliance since 2013. In that time, he has mentored a dozen foster youth. Barry speaks from a place of experience and a passion to see young people prosper.

“Zane” is the twelfth young man I’ve had the opportunity to work with. Most of these relationships have lasted about a year or less. Many of the young men are eventually placed with (non-local) foster families.

Of those who have aged out, “Brian” is a success story. He graduated from college and is now living independently. I always encourage young men to remain under the state’s care as long as possible and to pursue college. Sadly, many do not have the study habits or discipline needed to succeed in higher education.

The reality is that an unstable family life, a lack of consistent support, limited preparation for independent living, and gaps in education all contribute to the high rate of struggle after aging out of the foster system.

During my time mentoring each young man, I try to pour into them through encouragement, faith, and hope. I let them choose our activities so we can spend meaningful, enjoyable time together. Each week, we spend a few minutes on a short devotional or a character-building lesson. I pray with them and for them, invite them into my home for meals and holidays, and encourage them to attend church when they are able.

Success Redefined

OCA Life Coach Director Suzanne Pritchard says, “Zane trusted Christ this month and was baptized! He is moving in a positive direction in his life choices, growing in his life skills, and learning how to have healthy relationships.” She explains, “God is using Barry, his Life Coach, to help him become the young man God has created him to be.”

Suzanne points out, “Even though teens from traumatized backgrounds don’t always go on to succeed in the normal sense of the word. They are greatly helped and changed by the love of Christ shown to them through caring Life Coaches.”

You can make a difference in the life of a young person with foster care, relative care, or adoption as part of their journey. Get more info and sign up to be an OCA Life Coach today.