SHIELD Mentor Program

Strengthen, Help, Inspire and Encourage Leadership Development
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Become a Mentee

 



Youth are matched with a community role model who is trained to focus on positive reinforcement, trust-building, and the achievement of goals, by engaging youth in mentoring in the community. Mentors and youth agree to meet once per month.

To begin, download and complete one of the following forms:


Youth Program Participant Applications

Mentee Application

Peer Mentor Application





Is there a fee for the program?

No, our program is offered free of charge.

How are children referred to the program?

We accept referrals from teachers, grandparents, guidance counselors, neighbors and other concerned individuals. However enrollment in our program requires approval and participation by a child's parent or legal guardian. All parents must want their children to be in our program, and all children must want a mentor.

Where are the children from?

While the majority of children are from the Guilford County, there are Mentees from surrounding areas.

Who are the children in the program?

Our Mentees come from many types of home environments and family structures, different socio-economic levels, ethnic backgrounds, and neighborhoods and schools across all communities. Their backgrounds and personalities are unique.

How old does a child have to be to participate?

Adolescents can be between the ages of 12 and 18. Children may remain in the program until they turn 18 or graduate from high school.

Is there a waiting list for the program?

There is NOT a waiting list at this time,

What sort of screening process do volunteers go through?


Each volunteer must undergo a thorough screening process that includes:

  • Completion of a formal written application
  • A criminal history record check
  • At least three references
  • An orientation and training process that outlines the standards, policies, expectations, and roles of a mentor

Eligibility

 

To be eligible to participate in our program, a child must:

 

  • Be between the ages of 12 and 18
  • Reside in Guilford County
  • Be available to meet with a mentor two to four times per month for at least one year
  • Want to have a mentor
  • Want to participate in the program

The parent/guardian must be willing and capable of supporting the match relationship.

Parents and guardians are an integral part of the match at every step of the process.


Once the match is made, you will remain closely involved in several key ways:

  • Approving and supporting your child’s involvement
  • Asking your child questions about the match meetings and reporting any concerns to the agency staff
  • Reporting to the agency about your child’s progress and milestones in the match relationship (our staff will contact you regularly, but we welcome your feedback at any time)