Frequently Asked Questions
Mentoring questions
Starting the journey of becoming a mentor is exciting but can come with some unanswered questions. This experience can be a positive outcome for both the mentor and mentee. Here are some frequently asked questions about mentorship.
Who can mentor?
To be a mentor, you must:
- Be 21 years of age or older
- Pass a mandatory screening that includes: background and fingerprint check, as well as verification of references and work history
- Commit to spending 4-to-6 hours per month one-on-one with a mentee
- Attend an initial training session
You should also be:
- A willing listener
- Encouraging and supportive
- Patient and flexible
- Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
As a mentor, you will:
- Support a young person through an ongoing one-on-one relationship
- Serve as a positive role model and friend
- Plan and participate in activities together
- Build self-esteem and motivation in a young person
- Help your mentee set goals and work toward accomplishing them
- Know that you are making a difference
- Receive personal fulfillment
What kind of support do mentors receive?
Our mentors provide children with the kind of guidance, care and support that all young people need. In return, Youth Villages offers services to support mentors.
You will receive:
- Initial training
- Ongoing support and mentor/mentee group activities
- Complimentary tickets to community events when available
- Tax deductions for mileage and mentoring expenses
- Personal ongoing support and supervision to help the match succeed
Why mentor?
Here’s what Youth Villages mentors say:
“Being a grown up, sometimes you forget to have fun. You get so busy with the things you have to do; you don’t just go and have fun. That’s what mentoring is, going out and having fun.”
“The cute little girls and younger boys are easy to match. I want to mentor someone who really needs me.”
“Seeing my mentee, I have really learned the meaning of hope.”
Become a mentor. It may be the most rewarding thing you ever do.
Personal ongoing support and supervision to help the match succeed
