MENTOR PROGRAM
“Everyone longs to be loved. And the greatest thing we can do is to let people know that they are loved and capable of loving.” Mister Rogers
MENTOR PROGRAM MISSION
The Mentoring Program's mission is to empower individuals to reach their highest potential and support them on their journey to independent living. The mentoring program uses adult volunteers to commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to a young-adult person for a period of at least one year. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the individual, the mentor can help the young-adult develop and reach positive outcomes in their life now and in the future.
IT'S ABOUT RELATIONSHIPS
Mentoring is about increasing youth connection and community. Successful mentoring focuses on building a relationship that allows for a place of influence. The mentor and mentee will grow together, learning from one another. It becomes a reciprocal relationship where both feel they are the blessed one for having the interaction of the other.
Join us in making a real difference.
MENTORING FAQ
HOW DO I BECOME A MENTOR?
All mentors must complete the entire application process, interview with a staff member of Aftercare International, complete and pass a background check and complete all necessary training in order to be approved as a mentor. Mentors must be at least 21 years of age, and be able to relate to people with different cultural backgrounds. It is desired that they have active listening and communication skills, both oral and written, understand the importance of their role as a mentor and confidant. They must adhere to the mission, rules and guidelines set by the Aftercare International Mentoring Program and keep up-to-date records of their required paperwork.
WHAT IS THE COMMITMENT OF A MENTOR?
Make a one-year commitment
Spend a minimum of four hours per month one-to-one with a mentee via video conference.
Communicate with the mentee weekly
Attend an initial two-hour training session and additional two-hour training sessions twice during each year of participation in the program
Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS?
Be at least 21 years old
Be interested in working with young adults
Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures
Be willing to complete the application and screening process
Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments
Attend mentor training sessions as prescribed
Have video conference availabilities (Google Meet, Zoom, etc.)
Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information, complete weekly Mentor Report Form and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities
Have access to an automobile, auto insurance, and a good driving record (for in-country mentors and in-country visits)
Have a clean criminal history
No use of illicit drugs
No use of alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner
Not currently in treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years
May need to be fluent in Spanish or other languages depending on Mentee's needs.
Desirable Qualities
Willing listener
Encouraging and supportive
Patient and flexible
Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
I HAVE NEVER WORKED AS A MENTOR. AM I STILL QUALIFIED?
Yes! The biggest quality we look for in our mentors is the desire to help others reach their fullest potential!
John Quincy Adams
"If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader."