Mentor a Youth in Foster Care

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Transitioning from adolescence into adulthood can be a challenging time for any teenager but even more so for a youth aging out of the foster care system. All too often, they are entering the real world without the resources, skills, knowledge or even a plan in place needed for independent living. As a result, many will be at a greater risk of dropping out of school, homelessness, unemployment, early parenthood, or having a criminal record. However, having a caring and trusted adult in their lives can help change this outcome for many.

A Transition Coach is a caring, responsible, adult volunteer who serves as a trusted guide to a youth, currently living in foster care, who is close to aging out of the system. The goal of the Transition Coaching Program is to match this population of youth with trained, transition coaches (volunteers) who will guide them in developing transition plans that help them reach their desired goals. The coach will also help the youth explore viable options for them with regards to education and/or employment as well as offer support as they navigate their road toward adulthood.

Volunteers are matched with a youth, age 14 or older, to assist the youth in developing their transitional goals and to offer additional support outside of the foster care system. The volunteers meet with the youth a minimum of twice a month in the youth’s current placement or in some other agreed upon public setting. The volunteer and youth will develop a meeting schedule that works for them. Youth live across greater Houston and all surrounding areas. Training and ongoing support are provided.

To become a Transition Coach, you must be willing to commit at least a year to the youth with whom you ae matched, attend an orientation and training session, submit a completed volunteer application, participate in a personal interview and pass a criminal background screening. Orientations are held each month; alternating day time and evening sessions.