Research studies show that spending two contacts per month (four hours per month) with a disadvantaged child can change everything. Children with mentors are more likely to graduate, more likely to be involved in life-building activities, and more likely to avoid drugs. As a mentor candidate, you have the power to shape a young life in meaningful and lasting ways. Our children often face challenges such as poverty, unstable homes (often relocating multiple times per year), and limited access to supportive resources. These obstacles can leave children feeling isolated and uncertain. A mentor provides stability, encouragement and guidance that can help a child navigate unfortunate circumstances and build the confidence to reach their amazing potential. At Urban Hope Indy, it’s easy to become a youth mentor: 1) Apply online at urbanhopeindy.org, 2) Give permission for UHI to perform a background and reference check, and 3) Complete on-line mentor training (normally a 2-hour process). It generally takes a couple of weeks to perform reference checks and complete the matching process. After UHI has matched a mentor and a mentee, the best part of the process takes place–a match meeting! There are lots of smiles as UHI provides refreshments and “get acquainted” questions for the mentor and mentee to ask one another. “What’s your favorite hobby?” “What’s your favorite subject in school?” The mentor and parent (or caregiver) sign agreements stating that they understand the general guidelines of our mentor program. At the end of the meeting, the UHI caseworker helps to schedule the first “connection” day for the mentor and mentee. That’s it! Mentoring a child will be one of the most rewarding things you’ve ever done in your life. UHI makes it easy as we provide many free monthly activities for BOTH of you. We will be on this amazing journey with you. Be the one you needed. Apply today at www.urbanhopeindy.org!
