Lawrence Hall Youth Services

Mentor

The Right Turn Career-Focused Transition Initiative (Right Turn)^TM of Lawrence Hall’s Project Work uses a three-phase career development model to promote the successful transition of Right Turn youth to employment, continued learning opportunities, and independent living. The career-focused transition program uses adult volunteers to commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to a young person for a period of at least one year. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the youth, the mentor can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.

Role of the Mentor

• Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship.
• Serve as a positive role model and friend.
• Build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together.
• Strive for mutual respect.
• Build self-esteem and motivation.
• Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them.

Time Commitment

• Make a one-year commitment.
• Meet with their youth mentee for at least one hour each week.
• Attend group meetings and events when possible (group meetings are about 1 hour in length).
• Communicate with the family, case manager, and program staff regularly (at least bi-weekly).
• Attend an initial in-person training session, as well as participating in ongoing training during each quarter of participation in the program (ongoing training may be virtual or by phone as warranted).
• Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events.

Participation Requirements

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Residency within target community, desirable
• Be interested in working with young people.
• Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures.
• Be willing to complete the application and screening process.
• Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments.
• Attend mentor training sessions as prescribed.
• Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff and family, submit activity information, and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities.
• If transporting mentees, have auto insurance and a good driving record.
• If background includes court involvement, be able to demonstrate current good standing with the justice system and the personal capacity to serve as a consistent, positive role model and mentor for youth.
• If background includes alcohol and/or substance abuse and/or a mental health need, be able to demonstrate completed or ongoing treatment, as well as a reasonable period of continuous sobriety or stability and the personal capacity to serve as a consistent, positive role model and mentor for youth.

Ongoing Opportunities with Lawrence Hall Youth Services

Volunteer Opportunities include: – Balanced and Restorative Justice (BARJ) – Clerical work – Corporate Volunteer/Service Day – Fundraising activities and special events – Junior Board – North Shore Auxiliary – Therapeutic Recreation & Expressive Therapies – Tutoring (Subject to change)