VOLUNTEER Hampton Roads

The Up Center, formerly Child & Family Services of Eastern Virginia, needs mentors for our Team Up program to serve as role models for at-risk youth ages 6-17. The mentors commit to spending several hours/week for at least one year with their mentees. Team Up Mentoring was formed in 2008 to fill the gap left in the community after Big Brothers/Big Sisters of South Hampton Roads closed. For more information, please contact Letitia Carrington- Match Specialist 757-337-3513 or Volunteer Coordinator Courtney Anderson, 757-965-8658.

Team Up Mentoring

Mentor Job Description

Change the world one relationship at a time! Team Up Mentoring enables at-risk youth, ages 6-17, to benefit from supportive and trusting one-on-one match relationships with adults, from all segments of society, who are at least 20 years of age. The adult mentors commit to spending several hours per week for a year with their mentees. The focus is on building a trusting relationship in order to help the young person with character, social and leadership development. The adult mentor offers the mentee support, friendship, and encouragement.

Mentor Role

• Trusted guide or friend
• Caring, responsible adult
• Positive role model
• Good listener

Time Commitment

• Meet several hours/week for 1 year
• Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events
• Stay in monthly contact with your match support specialist

Participation Requirements

• Be at least 20 years old
• Reside in the South Hampton Roads area
• Be interested in working with young people
• Attend mandatory mentor orientation and training session
• Have access to an automobile, auto insurance, and a good driving record

Desirable Qualities

• Know how to have fun
• Be flexible and open
• Have respect for other points of view
• Have the ability to empathize with another person’s struggles
• Be friendly
• Be a good listener

Benefits

• Knowing you are making a difference in someone’s life
• Seeing your mentee smile when you pick him or her up
• Meeting like-minded mentors
• Making a friend for life
• Sharing experiences
• Attending free monthly group activities
• Celebrating with volunteer recognition events

Application and Screening Process

• Written application
• Background checks: Criminal history; FBI fingerprint; Child protective services; Sex offender registry; DMV
• Personal interview
• Reference checks: 1 professional and 3 personal

For more information contact Leticia Carrington Match Specialist: 757-339-5313 or Juanita Rivera-Gordon Volunteer Coordinator: 757-622-7017 ext. 409