2.2 The volunteers, peers and coaches were the key to teaching both sport and much needed life skills. Key to winning the confidence of a child was to show the child how easy it was to change their paradigm to instill personal worth and self-esteem. The MITS program utilized the influence and inspiration of volunteers and local coaches who were closer in age to the children, which made it easier for the children to heed their guidance and instruction. This also made mentoring more affable and easier for the children to be teachable. This relationship is vital for teaching life skills as often teachers and parents were in too much of a position of authority, and there was not an opportunity for honest discussions or learning.