Expectations for Mentors
Mentors are matched with a youth and work one-on-one with that youth, developing a personal supportive relationship.
Mentors spend time with youth – participating in any activity that mentor and mentee agree on. Typical activities include going to museums, exercising or playing a sport, going to parks or cultural events, sightseeing, window shopping, going to the library. Some mentors help mentees with homework or school projects. Others help their mentee explore college or career options. The range of activities will depend upon the interests and age and needs of the teen.
Mentors listen to youth, giving them a safe place to discuss hopes and fears.
Mentors report to DCFYI, with updates on activities, developments and any concerns.
Mentors commit that once matched they will be a consistent presence in the life of their mentee.
Mentors protect confidentiality – only sharing information about or from the youth with others who are working directly with the youth.
Mentors spend at least eight hours a month with their mentee. Some of the time could be at DCFYI events, but most of their time is spent in the community doing other things.
Mentors commit to mentoring a youth for at least two years, because participating youth need people who will be in their lives long-term, not more people who don’t stick around. We hope mentors will be in youths’ lives long after the initial two year commitment.
Being a mentor for me has been a rewarding and enriching experience. (Priceless)
-DCFYI Mentor
Ready to get started?
Steps to being a mentor:
- Attend DCFYI orientation;
- Submit the mentor application (which you will get at orientation);
- Complete mentor training;
- Complete required background clearances.
While you are in process to become a mentor, attend Family & Youth Initiative events so you can get to know participating teens and be ready to be matched once you’ve completed the required steps. We match mentors and mentees based on relationships that develop at events.