BEST Kids, Inc.

Description

The BEST Kids Mentoring Program seeks to promote better futures for youth in the District of Columbia's child welfare system by developing and supporting one-on-one mentoring relationships between the youth and caring, consistent adults. Through our one-on-one volunteer mentoring, our extensive training, staff support and our experiential-learning-based peer group, we encourage our youth to discover and develop their unique skills and abilities. Beginning with children as young as six and continuing, as needed, until adulthood, BEST Kids Mentoring Program works to enable youth to develop a positive sense of self, to acquire teamwork and group social skills, and to become productive members of society. The mentor can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.

Mentor Role
Take the lead in supporting a young person 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
Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them

Time Commitment
Make a one-year commitment
Spend a minimum of ten hours per month one-to-one with a mentee
Communicate with the mentee weekly
Attend a mandatory initial three-hour training session and additional ongoing training sessions as necessary
Attend monthly mentor/mentee peer group events
We also hope you'll join us for optional mentor support groups, mentor recognition events, and mentor community events (e.g. mentor happy hours)

Participation Requirements
Be at least 21 years old
Reside in the DC metro area
Be interested in working with young people
Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures
Be willing to complete the application and screening process
Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments
Attend mentor training sessions as prescribed
Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information, and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities
Have access to an automobile, auto insurance, and a good driving record
Have a clean criminal history
Not use illicit drugs
Not use alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner
Not be currently in treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years
Not be currently in treatment for a mental disorder or hospitalized for such in the past three years