Make a Friend
PLEASE NOTE: We are currently not accepting new mentor applicants at Shapes.
The Shapes Mentoring Program is in the process of revamping its program.
We are excited about our future! Check back here periodically for updates.
Mentor Requirements
• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Reside in or near the Shapes Mentoring Program’s service counties.
• Be willing to adhere to all Shapes Mentoring Program policies and procedures.
• Be willing to adhere to the Mentor Job Description.
• Agree to a one-year commitment to the program.
• Commit to spending a minimum of 1 hour per week with the mentee.
• Be willing to communicate with the mentee weekly.
• Complete the screening procedure.
• Agree to attend mentor trainings as required.
• Be willing to communicate regularly with the program staff and submit monthly meeting and activity
information.
• Have access to an automobile.
• Have a current driver’s license, auto insurance, and good driving record.
• Have never been accused, arrested, charged, or convicted of child abuse or molestation.
• Not be a convicted felon. If the applicant has been convicted of a felony then they may be
considered only after a period of seven years with demonstrated good behavior and an appropriate
and corrective attitude regarding past behaviors.
• Not use illicit drugs.
• Not use alcohol or controlled substances in an excessive or inappropriate manner.
• Not be currently in treatment for substance abuse. If a substance abuse problem has occurred in the past the applicant must have completed a non-addictive period of at least five years.
• Not have falsified information during the course of the screening process.
Mentor Job Description / Responsibilities
Shapes Mentoring Program helps to empower families and youth in the community to make positive life choices that enable them to maximize their potential. The mentoring program uses adult volunteers to commit to supporting, guiding and being a friend to a youth for a period of twelve (12) months. By becoming part of the social network, the mentor can help the youth develop and reach positive goals, whether it be academic, career and (or) personal goals.
Mentor Goals
Showing up consistently: A key to earning trust while mentoring youth begins with consistency. Showing up to meetings tells the youth/child that they are important. Let them know that they are worth your time and investment.
Explore new social settings and opportunities: The environment or the social setting of the child/youth may not be healthy. They may be isolated to a world of hopelessness while hope is knocking at their door. Allow them to experience your network and introduce them to a world that is much broader and opportunistic than theirs.
Pay attention to successful behaviors: While many children/youth are starved for attention, their behavior tends to be negative due to the fact that society focuses on negative behavior to punish or discipline “those” children/youth. Focus on the positive and successful behaviors and encourage them in it.
Link children/youth to supportive activities or settings: There is a lack of resources and activities that many children/youth face. Attach the child to settings and activities that will influence them in a positive manner. Allow them to develop in these settings.
Mentor Role
• Take the lead in supporting a youth 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.
Mentor Time Commitment
• Make a 12 month commitment.
• Spend a minimum of 1 hour per week with the participant.
• Attend a four hour mentor training session with three hours additional within first year.
• Attend mentor program event(s), mentor meetings and (or) other special events.
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