Not Alone: Mentors for Russian Teen Moms, Children

After a rough start in life, Vika has found someone who really cares about her – Elena Rulevich, her mentor and friend. They met through Kidsave’s Malenkaya Mama program for teen mothers at a picnic planned by Kidsave Russia on Children’s Day. The program provides mentors for girls who grew up without a mother but are now mothers themselves.

Through regular contact with Elena, Vika is learning to trust, communicate and stabilize her life so she can raise her son well.  Their honest, open relationship has created a solid foundation for Vika to face and solve the challenges in her life. 

Elena, an experienced consultant with Mary Kay, is also helping Vika develop her skills as a beauty consultant. Vika studies the products of the company, looks for new clients, is learning to conduct master classes, and also attends nursing classes. She also participants in a Women’s Club that Elena started – giving her more positive connections with caring adults.  

Vika is living in the Malenkaya Maya Crisis Center, where she is raising her young son, Kirill.  Kirill is growing up as a healthy boy, with plenty of attention. He often plays with Elena’s son Pavel – a very positive friendship. 

Vika says that being with Elena has shown her what it means to be respected and treated as an adult and a responsible person. These are traits most of us learned from our parents but for her, they are new – and they life-changing. Elena is also helping Vika find Kirill’s father. 

Elena has worked with Kidsave and mentored four other young women, including one who is now married with two children and working as a cook. They stay in touch, and the relationship helps assure this young woman that she is remembered, cared about, and has a friendly and trustworthy support in her life.