One-on-One Youth Mentoring: Community

Our Community Mentoring Program is dedicated to the youth in Moore County who are at risk of not reaching their full potential due to a variety of factors. Youth who are in need of a positive adult role model, close monitoring of school, home and community behavior, as well as opportunities to learn social, recreational, vocational, and educational skills can benefit from our program. We believe that one caring adult can make a significant difference in the life of a child and operate under the premise that when we impact a child's life in a positive way, we change the future.

The Community Mentoring Program matches adult volunteers who are willing to give their time, energy, and compassion to a Moore County youth for one year. Our mentors work with young people who are between the ages of 6 and 17 and face many challenges. A mentor can help set and achieve goals, improve behaviors and raise self-esteem. Our mentors spend an average of 8 hours per month for a year with their young person working on goals and skill building. Community Mentoring offers activities throughout the year to support and encourage these friendships. This program is funded by the Juvenile Crimes Prevention Program and donations from individuals, churches, and businesses in our community.

Goals for the program include:

• building self-esteem and confidence
• goal setting
• encouraging students to be academically successful

Some students in the Community Mentoring Program are referred by juvenile justice authorities due to student involvement in the criminal justice system. Community Mentors must complete an orientation and training as well as pass an extensive background check.