15 Nov Michael Goldberg, PhD: Bolstering Sarasota’s Take Stock in Children
Michael has helped promote the nonprofit’s mission of breaking the poverty cycle so students can succeed at academics and in life. He’s also boosted the mentoring program, the organization’s hallmark. In August 2019, Michael began volunteering for Take Stock in Children (TSIC). And since 2020, Shade, a TSIC student, has benefited from Michael’s expertise and dedication.
An entering freshman at Florida State University, Shade has chosen Clinical Professions as his major, requiring rigorous study in science. Shade is beholden to Michael, saying, “During lunch we met in the school library, where we’d discuss grades, relevant events, and my future. An area of concern was time management. Michael showed me how to eliminate procrastination by noting events and assignments in a calendar so I could keep on track.”
Shade continues: “He took the initiative to become the positive male role model I had been missing, helping me build confidence and master study habits in order to become a competitive student.”
Having nothing but praise for his mentor, Shade says, “Michael became my pillar, supporting me above and beyond my academics, even rooting for me during my school wrestling matches.”
According to TSIC’s (Sarasota) Executive Director Lisa Bechtold, “Michael epitomizes a great mentor because he’s patient, empathetic, and a great listener, ensuring that his student’s needs are met.” Upon meeting Michael, Mentor Coordinator and College Success Coach Rebecca Lockwood was most impressed by his understanding of the process of working with teenagers, including potential challenges. Michael’s career has fortified that insight. Having earned numerous awards, Michael received his fellowship in child clinical psychology from Boston Children’s Hospital, He’s also been an instructor at St. Louis and Boston universities and Harvard Medical School.
When starting with TSIC, Michael was also a business mentor through SCORE, helping the nonprofit’s clients solve business problems—giving him an essential understanding of mentoring. Affirming others, Rebecca says, “He has a natural ability to make connections that students and adults both appreciate.” She also reflects on Michael’s proactive stance in playing a bigger role in supporting Take Stock Sarasota, specifically the Mentor Advisory Board, proposed by Jan Sirota, another mentor.
“The board was established toward the end of this school year. Michael’s wealth of knowledge, attention to detail, and natural leadership skills have enabled him to coordinate meetings and align the group’s primary goals. He’s helped initiate a mentor recruitment plan.” According to Rebecca, “He’s collaborating with TSIC Sarasota staff to engage with past and present mentors to help identify areas for improvement and create greater support and connection amongst mentors.” She captures TSIC gratitude. “Shade’s growth is a testament to what a student can achieve with a mentor’s encouragement. Our program has also grown because of Michael’s initiatives and support.” He looks forward to continuing his commitment to TSIC—transforming one student at a time.
How did you learn about Take Stock in Children?
I learned about TSIC Sarasota through an internet search. I wanted to make a difference in this community once we retired. It was win-win: beautiful beaches and cultural opportunities attracted me, and Take Stock in Children met my needs. I never look back.
With all the local nonprofits, why did you choose this one?
I believe strongly that you can break the cycle of poverty and help others improve their lives through education. There are many people who haven’t had the support and resources I’ve been fortunate to have. I wanted to use my experience to help these students.
What resources has TSIC provided so you could meet your goals for Shade?
It provides various web-based trainings, a resources guidebook, and individualized support, especially from the dedicated Mentor Coordinator & College Success Coach Rebecca Lockwood and other mentors.
Describe your TSIC mentoring.
Since 2020, I’ve been mentoring Shade, now a Sarasota High School graduate, who begins his post-secondary education at FSU this fall. Until 2021, mentoring was through Zoom, After that time, we met during Shade’s lunch break. We’ve addressed study skills, problem solving, and time management. Social and personal issues, financial literacy, choosing and applying to college and preparing for a positive transition to college are other areas we explored.
What has been your role on the Mentor Advisory Board?
I support the incredible TSIC staff in their efforts to recruit more mentors and reinforce their efforts in their life-changing work. I’m also engaging with past and current mentors to help identify areas for improvement and create greater support and connection amongst mentors.
As mentor/advisor, what have been/are your challenges? Rewards?
The rewards have greatly outweighed the challenges. Initial challenges were connecting with a Shade, who had many reasons to mistrust adult males. As that trust and bond have grown, the rewards have increased exponentially. I’m ecstatic to see Shade evolve into such a happy, increasingly trusting person who works hard and succeeds. He’s driven to take care of himself and his family, giving back to others.
What are you pastimes?
Traveling; boating; and owning, training, and riding horses.
What would you want to tell prospective volunteers?
Don’t underestimate the effect you can have on the lives of children who haven’t had requisite opportunities. Being available, positive, and supportive can make a difference in these kids’ lives. You’re rewarded multifold when you see how these children have the desire to make a good life for themselves—and their families.