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A mentor is someone who provides guidance, support, and encouragement to a young person or anyone they are mentoring, usually through a formal or informal program. Mentors can help develop positive skills, attitudes, and behaviors, as well as achieve their goals and overcome challenges.

If you would like more information over learning to be a mentor, click here here.

There are different qualifications for becoming a mentor, depending on the type of program and the

expectations of the organization. Some common qualifications are:

Education: Most mentors have at least a high school diploma or GED. Some mentors may have a bachelor’s degree in a field such as education, social work, psychology, or counseling 1 . Some programs may also require mentors to complete specific training courses or workshops on topics such as mentoring best practices, child development, communication skills, cultural competence, and safety. 

Experience: Many mentors have previous experience working or volunteering with children or adolescents in various settings, such as schools, community centers, churches, or sports teams. Some programs may also prefer mentors who have similar backgrounds or interests as their mentees, or who can serve as positive role models for specific groups, such as boys of color.

Skills: Mentors need to have strong interpersonal skills, such as listening, empathy, patience, respect,

and trust. They also need to have good communication skills, such as giving feedback, asking open-

ended questions, and expressing appreciation. Additionally, they need to have problem-solving skills, such as identifying needs, setting goals, and finding resources.

Commitment: Mentors need to be committed to building and maintaining a long-term relationship

with their mentees. They need to be consistent and reliable in meetings with their mentees regularly,

usually at least once a week for several months or years. They also need to be flexible and adaptable to their mentees' changing needs and preferences.

Yes, it requires a criminal background check for volunteers. This helps ensure the safety and

security of our youth and everyone involved.

A mentor is a person who provides you with the tools, guidance, support, and feedback you need

to thrive in your career. They're often someone who's gone down the same road you're on currently and is “there to advise you on what they've done and what's worked for them.”

Our mentoring program offers both in-person and virtual options. The format depends on

your location; if we have mentees in your area, we arrange in-person meetings. Otherwise, we

connect virtually, which allows us to reach more youth.

We will ask for your preference and try to match you with a suitable mentee. Our typical mentees fall

within the ages of 11 to 17. While our primary focus is on girls, we also assist boys based on the program, activities, and individual needs.

We appreciate your willingness to volunteer as a mentor. We ask that you commit to at least four hours per month if you are working directly with a mentee, but you can also meet more or less frequently depending on your availability and preference. We respect your time and do our best not to impose too much on you. Whatever you agree upon, please be consistent and reliable.

You can set your schedule as long as it is convenient for you and the mentee. It also depends on the

situation (school time/holidays/weekends) and what activities you are planning. Some mentors meet with their mentees at least once a week, but you can meet more often if you wish.

Each situation varies depending on the mentee’s needs and interests. Some mentees may have mental health or other challenges that require special attention. However, all activities will focus on personal development, writing, reading literacy, and outdoor recreation. If you meet in person, you can choose activities that are available in your area.

It depends on both of your availability, but during the school year, it is usually after school or on the

weekends. You also must consider the time zones if you are in different locations.

We suggest at least one hour per meeting, but it may vary depending on your schedule and the activity.

We ask for at least one school year and then we have summer sessions. However, there is no time limit for the mentoring relationship.

You can request to be matched with a different mentee. We want all mentoring relationships to be healthy and enjoyable for both parties.

We will conduct an assessment of the mentee to determine their personality, interests, goals, and needs. We will then match you with a mentee who is compatible with you.

Yes, you will have the opportunity to meet the parent or caregiver of your mentee. We encourage parent engagement and communication throughout the mentoring process.

Yes, you are welcome to buy gifts for your mentee as long as they are appropriate and within your budget.

Yes, we appreciate our mentors’ support and involvement in any way. You can host events that promote our mission and values, such as fundraisers, workshops, or social gatherings.

Yes, we encourage you to attend your mentee’s school events, such as sports games, concerts, or awards ceremonies. This shows your interest and support for your mentee’s academic and extracurricular achievements.

We do not discriminate against any religion or impose any religious views on our mentors or mentees. However, we do have discussions with our mentees about their culture and background, and we respect their choices and preferences. If a mentee does not want to participate in a certain conversation or activity due to their religious beliefs, they can opt out without any consequences.

No, you do not need any formal training or certification to be a mentor. However, we will provide you with an orientation session and ongoing support to help you become an effective and confident mentor.

Being a mentor is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You will have the opportunity to make a positive difference in the life of a young person, as well as develop your own personal and professional skills. You will also be part of a supportive and diverse community of mentors who share your passion and vision.

To apply to be a mentor, you must fill out an online application form on our website. You will also need to provide two references and consent to a background check. After we review your application, we will contact you for an interview.