9Who Care winner Trent Peaker is known in the community for his outstanding leadership and devoting his time to the city's youth.
Peaker is a mentor with Denver Urban Scholars (DUS), which has a program providing mentorship to children in Denver who may be at risk of dropping out of school of getting "lost in the system."
Two brothers, Saber and Khaled Ali, are refugees from Somalia who were both eventually paired with Peaker.
"In the beginning, I was really scared and nervous," Peaker said. "I wasn't sure if I was going to screw things up, or if my mentee would even like me. Despite my self doubt, I had a passion to work with DUS because I knew I could make a difference in someone's life."
Peaker has not only been their mentor for five years, he has developed a personal frienship with them and has become a trusted resource to their family as they have matured and grown over the years.
Saber and Khaled Ali say their mentor calls them consistently, helps them with homework and credits Peaker for getting them through school.
They also love playing basketball together in the Highlands area on Saturdays.
The mentorship has not been without challenges. From improving communication with teachers to talking through behavioral issues in school, Trent has pushed the boys to be their best. He has even participated in school meetings, helped the boys find summer jobs and helped them open bank accounts.
"Few individuals I have come across in my life are willing to give and look to receive nothing in return," said Tom Kimball, who nominated Peaker. "Trent is one of those rare individuals."
Beyond his role as a mentor, Trent has served DUS in a number of other ways. He has recuited other mentors, attends fundraisers, plans outreach events and contributes financially.