Volunteer mentors are the “engines” that drive the passion of Next Level. Volunteer mentors provide the caring and encouragement necessary to foster the academic and personal growth that is needed for students to make a successful transition from high school.

Mentors operate as coaches for Next Level. Mentors provide support and direction to students in Next Level’s academic mentoring component.

Minimum Participation Requirements

Screening Procedure

• Complete written application
• Criminal history check
• Provide three personal references
• Complete personal interview

Training Session

• Attend mentor training session prior to match
• Attend in-service training sessions as needed

Time Commitments

• One year (academic year) commitment to be matched and must be at least 21 years of age (exceptions for sophomore – senior college students)
• Meet with student one hour per week.
• Communicate with staff representative once a month.
• Communicate with parent/guardian on student’s progress monthly.
• Provide companionship, listening, and emotional support.
• Assist students with with accomplishing Next Level academic and personal development objectives.
• Participate in the development of an academic action plan.
• Participate in a closure process when that time comes.
• Complete program evaluation.

No Special Skills Required
You don’t need any special skills to become a mentor, just a desire to help children reach their potential. Mentors are everyday people who:

• Like working with young adults and children
• Are trustworthy and dependable
• Enjoy sharing talents and ideas with others
• Possess a sense of humor
• Want to make a contribution to society
• Believe in youth and their potential
• Encourage young people to establish and achieve goals

Benefits

• Personal fulfillment through contribution to community and individual
• Personally assisting youth by developing their character and integrity
• Satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals
• Training sessions and group activities
• Participation in a mentor support group
• Mileage and expenses are tax deductible
• Personal ongoing support, supervision to help the match succeed
• Mentee/mentor group activities and participant recognition events

Take Action!!

Mentors make a difference!! Mentors are special people who are willing to spend quality time with young people. They share life experiences, support goals and encourage children to reach their dreams and their full potential. Mentors are committed to making a difference in a child’s life. And they do!!

Be a part of the solution and become a mentor! If you would like to be a mentor, click on the link here and return completed application.