How To Become a Mentor
Kids don't care about a lot of things. They don't care how much money you have. They don't care what you look like. They don't care if you don't always say just the right thing. What kids do care about is that you are there, spending time with them. They care that you are their very own trusted friend.
Getting Started
Responsible mentoring is a structured one-to-one relationship or partnership that focuses on the needs of the young person. Mentoring fosters caring and supportive relationships, encourages young people to reach their fullest potential, and helps them to develop their own vision for the future.
What a Mentor IS:
- a guide
- a friend
- a listener
- a coach
- a responsive adult
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What a Mentor IS NOT:
- a savior
- a foster parent
- a therapist
- a parole officer
- a cool peer
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Think about how you want to work with a young person and consider these tips:
- What activities interest you? Your enthusiam for a particular activity or hobby is as important as the activity itself. For now, a young person might develop a specific skill or learn about a subject they would not have otherwise thought about. In the long run, being around an adult who is enthusistic and motivated will help kids to value and pursue their own interests throughout their life.
- How many kids do you want to work with? How old? Think about the age and number of youth you prefer to work with. Would you like to spend time one-on-one or coach a group? Are they elementary, middle, or high school age?
- How much time can you commit to?
Once a week? Once or twice a month?
It is important to be realistic about the responsibilities involved with mentoring a young person. If you are not sure about mentoring a young person for at least 6 months, consider trying a shorter-term volunteer opportunity.
Keep in mind, however, what one mentor said ...
"You don't know in advance how rewarding it is going to be, so you are worried about the responsibility of giving your time consistently. The irony is that once I starting doing it, I didn't want to miss a session."
- What personal contacts can help you get started?
- Talk to family and friends who volunteer.
- Talk to someone who handles community affairs or charitable contributions at your office.
- Talk to your minister, rabbi, priest, or someone who handles community outreach where you worship.
- Talk to organizers and other members of service clubs, civic groups, fraternities, sororities, or professional associations you belong to.
- Think about organizations in your community that interest you. There are many volunteer and mentoring organization across the country. Look for one with other adults who share your commitment and values.
Ready?
Click here to search for local mentoring & volunteering opportunities.
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