screening/training/support
mentor screening includes:
Mentor Connection conducts checks using SafetyNet, a nationwide, FBI fingerprint-based background check available to mentoring programs in the country.
Screening includes a written application, personal references, a one-on-one interview with a program coordinator, FBI fingerprint check (includes sexual offense history), driving record check, child abuse history check, and observation of the mentor in training.
mentor training includes:
- One-on-one interview with program staff
- Two-hour interactive mentor training
- Quarterly mentor support meetings that include a guest speaker on issues relating to youth served and peer support session
- Community Mentoring Guidebook
mentor support includes:
After a mentor is matched with a child in the community-based program, staff follows up with a mentor, parent/guardian, and child each month for the first three months. In addition, Mentor Connection provides four to six mentor support meetings throughout the year. Professional speakers present on topics related to children and adolescents. Several mentor/mentee group activities are also organized throughout the year for all the mentors and youth. These activities include sporting events, trips to the cider mill, and bowling parties. Support is available on-site each week for all after-school programs.
