In our individualized mentorship program, volunteer mentors are matched 1 to 1 with a youth, ages 8 to 17, living in Pope county. Our program includes either a 1 year or 6 month commitment to ensure youth develop a long term, trusting relationship with their mentor. Mentorships are carefully matched according to interests, hobbies, and skills, with consideration of where mentors live and work. 1 on 1’s meet weekly or by weekly in the at their homes or somewhere in the community to do fun activities based on their interests and goals. They receive consistent support from RVYF volunteers, and are provided with unique opportunities such as field trips and life skills workshops. Through this mentorship program the youth will develop important social and life skills and are able to access new opportunities through their mentor.
Our Group Mentoring Program is for students that are in 5th through 10th grade and matches the students with volunteer mentors in small groups for interactive group mentoring sessions. The sessions that the mentors lead focus on goal setting, school engagement, decision making, healthy life skills and activities, and more. This program provides students with wonderful support and gives students the resources they need to be successful. This program is very helpful for students going through school transitions.
Why is mentorship important?
LITTLE TIME. BIG IMPACT.
YOUTH "AT-RISK" FOR FALLING BEHIND AND OFF TRACK BUT HAD A MENTOR:
Mentorship benefits for youth
Increased high school graduation rates
Lower high school dropout rates
Healthier relationships and lifestyle choices
Better attitude about school
Higher college enrollment rates and higher educational aspirations
Enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence
Improved behavior, both at home and at school
Stronger relationships with parents, teachers, and peers
Improved interpersonal skills
Decreased likelihood of initiating drug and alcohol use (MENTOR, 2009; Cavell, DuBois, Karcher, Keller, & Rhodes, 2009)