Types of Mentoring
School-based or Site-based Mentoring
This type of mentoring involves forming a relationship with one child or several children during school hours or after school hours at the child’s school or at a community center or afterschool program. Usually, mentors meet with one child or a group of children for one hour each week. The time commitment varies depending on the program, from 4 months to 9 months.
Community-based Mentoring
This type of mentoring involves forming a one-on-one relationship with a child after school hours or on the weekend, in the community. Mentors and proteges schedule their time together weekly with the approval of the child’s parent or guardian, and usually spend between 2-4 hours together. Common activities include going to the beach, learning new hobbies, participating in sports, etc. The time commitment is usually 12 months.
Young Family Mentoring
This type of mentoring involves forming a relationship with a new parent or parent-to-be. Mentors provide support, guidance and encouragement for the parenting process, and help their proteges gain confidence in their new role as a parent. Mentors and proteges may meet in a variety of settings, including school, the protege’s home, or at a mutually agreed upon location, between 1-4 hours each week. The time commitment is 6 to 12 months, depending on the program.
Volunteer to become a Mentor.