Become a Mentor

Why does Mentoring matter?
They need mentors like you.
What does being a mentor look like?
How do I benefit from being a mentor?
Become a Mentor
Mentor Expectations, Time Commitments, Benefits for Mentors
Mentoring Opportunities & Application Process

The Shelby County Youth Assistance Program is accepting applications for new mentors. We have two Mentoring Programs: Individual Mentoring & Group Mentoring. As part of our Individual Mentoring program, we offer mentors an opportunity to meet with students during school hours at lunch time. The Lunch Buddy program is currently available at Waldron and Southwestern schools.

Individual Mentoring

Currently Accepting Applications

· One-on-one match between a mentor and their mentee

· Mentors and mentees meet for 1 hour a week for 1 year

· Mentors are responsible for planning and coordinating activities with the mentee and their parents

· Still have questions? Check out our FAQs.

Group Mentoring

Currently Accepting Applications

· Group setting with multiple mentees and multiple mentors

· Group Mentoring meets 1 hour each week

· Supplies and activities are provided by SCYAP; mentors are NOT responsible for planning or coordinating

What are the requirements?

· Must be at least 21 years old
· Clean background check
· Good driving record
· No use of illicit drugs
· No use of alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner
· Not currently in treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years
· Not currently in treatment for a mental disorder or hospitalized for such in the past three years

What does it take to be a good mentor?

· Willing listener
· Encouraging and supportive
· Patient and flexible
· Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
· Trustworthy and dependable

How do mentors benefit from this program?

· Personal fulfillment through contribution to the community and individuals
· Satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals
· Training sessions and group activities
· Mileage and expenses are tax deductible
· Personal ongoing support
· Group activities, participant recognition events

How do I get started?

· Complete Mentor Application online
· Conduct personal interview
· Complete criminal background check: federal, state, child abuse and neglect, sexual & violent offender registry
· Provide three personal references
· Attend new mentor training
· Begin mentoring!

Mentor Application

Still have questions? Send us a message.

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