Adult volunteers to commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to a young person for a period of at least six months. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the youth, the mentor can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.
Role of the Mentor
- Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship.
- Serve as a positive role model and friend.
- Build the relationship by planning and participating in group activities with other mentor-mentee pairs.
- Strive for mutual respect.
- Build self-esteem and motivation.
- Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them.
Time Commitment
- Make a six-month commitment
- Meet with their youth mentee at least 3 times per month
- Communicate with the volunteer coordinator, case manager, and program staff regularly (at least bi-weekly).
- Attend an initial in-person training session
- Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events.
Participation Requirements
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have no history of child abuse or neglect.
- Be interested in working with young people.
- Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures.
- Be willing to complete the application, background check, and fingerprint process.
- Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments.
- Attend mentor training session.
- Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit volunteer time log, and take constructive feedback.
MENTOR JOB DESCRIPTION
Desirable Qualities
- Willing listener
- Encouraging and supportive
- Patient and flexible
- Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
