GET INVOLVED
The mentor approval process involves the Mentoring Essentials Training, a Background Check including Fingerprints, an Interview, and RVM staff checking 3 References you provide on the Mentor Application. This process is free to you, and fingerprints can be rolled at several locations around the Rogue Valley.
The first step in becoming a mentor is to complete a Mentor Application.
Once we have received your Mentor Application, you will be contacted by our Operations Manager.
National research shows that mentoring relationships thrive when adult mentors receive adequate support from program staff. As a mentor, you will always have someone you can turn to when you have a question or concern, or when you just want a listening ear. You will be invited to monthly Mentor Support Circles, where you can give and receive support from other mentors. Mini-trainings and regular newsletters with resources will also be offered to increase your knowledge base on topics relevant to youth mentoring.
Role
- Support a young person through an ongoing 1-to-1 Mentoring relationship
- Or support a group of youth, by co-facilitating a school or community Mentoring Circle with an RVM Lead Mentor or Program Coordinator
- Serve as a positive role model and friend
- Strive for mutual respect
- Listen deeply and actively, without judgement
- Notice and uplift youth’s strengths
- Build self-esteem and motivation
- Communicate and plan activities with mentee and/or their family
Time Commitment
- Attend Rogue Valley Mentoring Essentials training (~12 hours total, over multiple sessions)
- Time commitment decided and agreed upon by mentor and mentee in a 1-to-1 Mentoring relationship: the ideal length is 1-year for 1-1 Match, or an academic year for Mentoring Circles
- A minimum of 4 volunteer hours per month
- Attend monthly Mentor Support Meetings: offered in-person and virtually, in separate sessions
- Attend other RVM events and Mentor Trainings, as desired
Participation Requirements
- Complete a Mentor Application and the screening process, as described above
- Provide 3 References who can be reached and are willing to provide feedback
- Interest in working with young people
- Be dependable and consistent in meeting time commitments
- No felony convictions, or violent / sexual criminal history of any kind
- Be available to volunteer for at least 1-year