In the program, two adult mentors are matched with a group of 6 youth mentees once a week for two hours. Mentors serve as role models, friends, and confidants - all an additional source of support for children.
Together, the groups meet at assigned sites, such as YMCA branches, schools, or community centers, and take part in sports, community service programs, and games. They also discuss and do role-playing about issues and events going on in their lives.
There are two program cycles: An 8-week session that meets in the summer, and a 16-week session that meets in the fall and spring. Mentors follow a YMCA group mentoring handbook, and the program director and families convene monthly to make sure each child’s goals are being met.