Meet Maurice Walker, a dedicated C4K mentor who recently celebrated nearly 550 hours at the Clubhouse. Since February 12, 2004, Maurice has quietly shaped countless young lives, bringing wisdom and dedication to every session. In his 20+ years with C4K, he has continually found creative ways to support youth, drawing from his own experiences and work at UVA’s Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Though he prefers to keep the focus on our youth members, Maurice kindly shared some insights on the transformative power of long-term mentorship.
C4K: Tell us a little bit about yourself: What do you do professionally? What activities recharge your batteries?
Maurice: I am employed at the University of Virginia within the Division for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, serving as Program Manager for National Science Foundation grants. I am also currently pursuing a master’s in business administration from James Madison University.
During my spare time, I enjoy collecting and reading comic books. I am a huge Batman, the Legion of Super-Heroes, and X-Men fan since childhood. I also play kickball through a local organization called FXA Sports (formally C’ville Social).
C4K: You could volunteer at any number of terrific organizations in Cville. Why C4K?
Maurice: I was introduced to C4K by a co-worker (at the time) who was involved with the organization. I was drawn to C4K because it reminded me of mentoring initiatives that I participated in as a child. Plus, I loved that participants are able to utilize their passions in order create things while learning new skills.
C4K: What has been a surprising or unexpected moment you’ve experienced while mentoring at the Clubhouse?
Maurice: The most surprising and unexpected moments continue to be when I run into a former clubhouse member who is now an adult. They talk about their current life and may share a funny or memorable story about something that occurred at the clubhouse.
C4K: How have the youth you’ve mentored influenced or shaped your approach to problem-solving, creativity, or your own work?
Maurice: I like to believe that C4K has helped to hone my active listening skills. In terms of creativity, I believe C4K has shown me how everyday items can be utilized to create something by channeling your imagination.
C4K: What changes or developments have you seen in the Clubhouse over your time here, and how have these shifts impacted the mentor-student dynamic?
Maurice: One of the biggest changes I have seen is how space has evolved. When I first started, C4K was housed on Grove Street in the UVA Nursing Professional Development Services building. C4K occupied two rooms in the building (if I remember correctly) but was always overflowing with projects/items made by students. When C4K moved to the IX Warehouse/Art Park, it felt like an upgrade to a tech office combined with a maker space.
C4K: Can you share an example of a moment when you learned something new or unexpected from one of our Clubhouse members?
Maurice: I am constantly amazed by the details and thought that goes into Roblox games created by Clubhouse members. Also, the amount of love C4K club members have for Sonic the Hedgehog – the giant Sonic head and other replicas.
C4K: If you could introduce a new tool, technology, or program to the Clubhouse that you think would have a big impact, what would it be and why?
Maurice: Personally, I think continuing to approach things from a STEAM perspective and focusing on how to bring their ideas to the marketplace. Perhaps consider educating older club members about responsible uses for AI, because this is something that will impact their lives moving forward.
C4K: How would you convince a parent or guardian to sign up their kid for mentoring at C4K?
Maurice: C4K provides skill and technologies that are typically not available to schools. If schools do have access, it is in a very limited capacity. In addition, C4K focuses on creativity and hands-on learning in one-on-one or small group settings.
Maurice’s story shows how impactful mentorship can be when it’s grounded in commitment, empathy, and shared curiosity. At C4K, mentors like Maurice equip young people by not only teaching them skills but also showing them they’re part of a supportive community that believes in their potential.
If you’re looking for a way to make a difference, consider becoming a mentor. Just a few hours can spark a passion, encourage a talent, or set a young person on the path to a brighter future.