Mentors talk with, play with, and read to children.
Jumpstart does not seem endangered, however. He cited area businesses and Yale as private sponsors who have been particularly helpful. DeGuzman said the program's strength lies in its ability to provide children with individual attention. Laura Brito '00 said she was especially pleased with the relationship she developed with her child, Crystal, and said she felt that her child is now prepared for grade school. DeGuzman said another of Jumpstart's strengths lies in its ability to foster ties between Yale and New Haven.