MercyFirst’s Mentoring for Hope Program connects foster
care adolescents of ages 14 to 21 with caring and responsible adults who can
serve as supportive role models through a one on one relationship with their
mentees. The purpose of this program is to develop supportive and positive
relationships that contribute to the achievement of personal, social, and educational
or professional growth and preparing for the future.
Job description: Responsibilities of Foster Care Youth Mentor (volunteer, non-paid opportunity)
- Responsible for meeting with the assigned mentee
at least once a month at an agreed location
- Serve as an example/role model
- Act as a resource and guide
- Work closely with agency staff through phone
contact, personal conferences and group meetings
- Accept and relate to youth who may not share the
volunteer’s lifestyle and values
- Respect the mentee’s right to self-determination
and independence
Mentor Requirements/Qualifications:
- Willing spirit
- Openness to cultural differences
- Good listening skills
- Patience
- Sense of humor
- Commitment
- Dependability
- Flexibility
All volunteers must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Commit to a 1 year of service
- Have earned a high school diploma
- Submit an application, 3 forms of reference, and
all other inquired information
- Pass a criminal background check
- Successfully complete an interview for a mentor
position with MercyFirst’s Youth Development Program
Benefits for Mentors:
- Training in communication and conflict
resolution skills, the role of a mentor, diversity training and youth
development.
- Insight into the life of a youth and youth
culture
- A fun way to give back to the community
Matching Process:
Matches will be made on the basis
of interests, skills, background, knowledge and temperament of both the young
person and the mentor.
For more information, contact
Shajida Mcnab at smcnab@mercyfirst.org