When you were young, did you know how to study for a test or make plans for college? Do you remember wanting your first car or looking for a part-time job? Simple things that may seem easy or straightforward to you now may be a complete mystery to a young person. 1 in 3 young people will grow up without having a mentor– either through a formal mentoring program or informally through a family friend or community member –leaving them disconnected from a critical resource to help with these very things.
Mentoring can be one of the most satisfying and rewarding experiences you'll ever have. You may be uncertain about what youth mentoring involves or whether you have the background and experience to succeed at mentoring. Many people considering mentoring often have these concerns and wonder what mentoring programs are all about.
Mentoring is the one-to-one or group relationship that one or more adults develop with one or more young people to help them develop and succeed. Mentoring is most effective when it’s a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support, and encouragement.
Before becoming a mentor, here are a few things to understand about the role of mentoring. Most of us have had a teacher, supervisor, or coach who has been a mentor to us and made a positive difference in our lives. Those people wore many hats, acting as delegators, role models, cheerleaders, policy enforcers, advocates, and friends. Mentors assume these different roles during a relationship, and share some basic qualities:
Penny Lane Centers requires all interested in our mentoring program to meet the following requirements:
If you do not meet all the requirements to become a mentor, there are other ways to get involved with us! Follow us on social media, donate cash or in-kind items to support our mission, sign up for our newsletter or advocate on our behalf through your networks to encourage others to get involved.
The first step to becoming a mentor is to review our checklist to see if you qualify for the mentoring program.
If you meet all the requirements, then please fill out the appropriate forms below and we will get back to you to schedule a brief interview.
Get interviewed so we can get to know you better and determine if you are fit to become a mentor.
Undergo a background check including references, DMV, TB Test, Physical and Live Scan.
Based on mutual interests and preferences we will match you with the program you are most interested in supporting.
The person tasked with coordination of volunteers in that program will reach out to you directly to get you started and help you understand the program, your role as well as how you can best make an impact as a mentor.
From expectant mothers to homeless veterans, our programs provide critical services. Your gift will change a life and make a difference by giving hope and helping meet the needs of the underserved.
