What is a Mentor?

A matter of trust. Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee. A mentor is willing to give of their time to talk with a student and assist the student in achieving personal, academic and career exploration goals.

Mentors are good listeners, people who care, people who want to help young people bring out strengths that are already there.

What it takes to become a Mentor?

The desire to become a role model and a person of importance for youth. Good communication skills and the desire to share knowledge and give encouragement freely. An enthusiasm for learning from your rookie, as well as for teaching them.

What’s in it for me?

Mentoring works! Mentoring has been shown to improve mentee self-esteem, life skills, and ability to make safe choices, while also being beneficial to the mentor!

"The highest reward for a person's work is not what they get for it, but what they become because of it." — John Ruskin

Benefits for Mentors

Positively impact the life of another. Make a fulfilling volunteer commitment. Take on a leadership role in your community by helping to provide safe space for youth. Improve your employability through volunteer/job-like experience. Participate in training and practical experience that improves communication and problem solving skills. Translate new mentoring skills to personal relationships and parenting.

How does the program work?

The Kids With Potential (KWiP) Mentoring Program has a unique intensive prevention and intervention approach featuring a 3:1 mentor to mentee ratio and a team concept analogous to sports. Each mentee or “rookie” is a 4th-8th grade student recommended by the local schools. Each rookie is matched with three mentors, two student “coaches” and one adult “trainer”. Each trainer is matched with two rookies, based on shared interests and preferences.

What’s expected of me?

Mentors are asked to provide academic and social support and guidance to their rookies for one hour per week. Mentors can meet with their rookies after school at the SOCK Community Center, or meet elsewhere in the community after an observation period.

How do I sign up?

Contact KWiP Team Managers to complete an application and background check or print form from website. Mentors are asked to make a year long commitment to being a mentor and to keep accurate records of their contact. Initial and on-going training is provided.

Kelsey and Dan
KWiP Mentoring Program Co-Managers
462-KWiP (462-5947)
Kelsey
Dan