Mentoring programs differ in their time requirements. Some expect a one-year commitment while others hope to pair students with mentors who will continue through the years with them all the way to high school graduation. Mentors meet with students regularly though, again, specific time requirements vary. Some programs ask for a one-hour-per-week commitment while others require monthly or bi-monthly meetings. Time spent on initial training is often required prior to beginning the mentoring relationship.
Mentors need a genuine love and concern for children to succeed in these volunteer positions. Vital skills include listening and communication as students often come to value their mentors as the only person who truly lends them a listening ear and non-judgmental conversations. Mentors who understand the child's perspective and work with the child to examine their opinions, beliefs and abilities in a non-threatening manner help students develop better personal awareness and higher self-esteem.
After-school mentors lead children either individually or in groups in various sports activities, games and learning activities. They carry responsibility for maintaining a respectful, caring environment where everyone feels safe to share and participate. Other duties include helping the child discover his strengths, set realistic goals and work to attain them. Mentors often play games or help students with studying and homework. Overall, mentors demonstrate the role of a responsible and successful adult in society.
After-school mentoring programs frequently occur on school grounds. Other mentoring programs occur at school during school hours. Various community agencies employ mentors in after-school programs or groups created for at-risk students. Some mentoring programs allow meeting and activities off the school or organization's grounds.
Adults interested in mentoring youth should contact a local public school. Even if the school does not have its own mentoring program set up, they will have information regarding local programs. Most mentoring programs ask that participants be at least 16 and sometimes 18 or older.They perform criminal history and background checks as part of the application process in addition to personal interviews.