MENTORING OPPORTUNITIES

When you were young, did you know how to study for a test or make plans for college? Do you remember wanting your first car or looking for a part-time job? Simple things that may seem easy or straightforward to you now may be a complete mystery to a young person. 1 in 3 young people will grow up without having a mentor– either through a formal mentoring program or informally through a family friend or community member –leaving them disconnected from a critical resource to help with these very things.

Mentoring can be one of the most satisfying and rewarding experiences you'll ever have. You may be uncertain about what mentoring involves or whether you have the background and experience to succeed at mentoring. Many people considering mentoring often have these concerns and wonder what it's all about.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is the one-to-one or group relationship that one or more adults develop with one or more young people to help them develop and succeed. Mentoring is most effective when it’s a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support, and encouragement.

What makes a good mentor?

Before becoming a mentor, here are a few things to understand about the role of mentoring. Most of us have had a teacher, supervisor, or coach who has been a mentor to us and made a positive difference in our lives. Those people wore many hats, acting as delegators, role models, cheerleaders, policy enforcers, advocates, and friends. Mentors assume these different roles during a relationship, and share some basic qualities:

• A sincere desire to be involved with a young person
• Respect for young people
• Active listening skills
• Empathy
• Ability to see solutions and opportunities
• Flexibility

Penny Lane Centers requires all interested in mentoring to meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be willing and able to make at least a one-year commitment to the program
• Be willing and able to meet with your mentee consistently (varies by program)
• Possess a valid driver’s license and current car insurance
• Have a safe driving record (no DUIs within the past three years; no more than two moving violations in the past year)
• Never been convicted of a felony
• No illegal drug use currently or within the last twelve months

Apply:

Review our checklist to see if you qualify. If you meet all the requirements, then please fill out the online application and we will get back to you to schedule a brief interview.

Interview:

• Get interviewed so we can get to know you better
• Undergo a background check including references, DMV, and Live Scan.

Get Matched:

• Based on mutual interests and preferences, get ready to match, meet and make new memories with your mentee.
• The person tasked with coordination of mentors in that program will reach out to you directly to get you started and help you understand the program, your role as well as how you can best make an impact.
• Lifetime friends!