Building a Circle You Can Turn To
November 6, 2026 · I AM SHE Inc.
A support circle can start with one person who follows through. Maybe that person answers a question about work, checks in after a hard appointment, or helps you find out where to get something you need. As you build your circle, notice which kinds of support each person can realistically offer. A good listener and a good source of job advice might be two different people.
If you’re preparing to leave foster care or have already aged out, you might want to stay in touch with someone who knows you while you build new connections. If you’re unhoused, you might need someone who understands that your phone access, transportation, or availability can change. Start with the relationships and ways of staying in touch that feel workable and safe for you.
Try drawing three small circles on paper or making three lines in a phone note. Give them the names practical help, guidance, and check-ins. Under practical help, you might list someone who could help you find work clothes or get a document printed. Under guidance, you might list someone who can explain what a job is like or help you think through a decision. Under check-ins, write the name of someone you’d feel comfortable hearing from after a difficult day.
Leave a space blank if no one comes to mind. A blank tells you where you’d like to build a connection. If you already know a former teacher, coworker, neighbor, or community contact you trust, try a small, specific request. You could say, “Could we talk for ten minutes about what to expect in this kind of job?” or “Would you be comfortable checking in by text after my appointment?” Give them room to say what they can offer.
If someone says yes, agree on a way to connect and when you’ll follow up. You can share only the details you want them to know. Pay attention to whether they respect your privacy, honor your boundaries, and follow through on what they offer. Trust can grow as you see how someone responds over time.
Mentorship can be one part of this circle. Most I AM SHE mentors are business owners or career-focused women, and we welcome other work and life experience. Useful guidance can come from someone who knows a trade, has navigated a career change, or can listen and ask a thoughtful question. Receiving support creates no debt. If you choose to pay it forward someday, you get to decide when and how.
Take a moment to ask yourself what kind of support would help most right now and who might be a good person to approach. You can write the request today and send it when you feel ready.
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