Generally, a mentor is a volunteer at youth or school organization. A mentor does not get paid for his volunteer work. A youth mentor needs not only a week or month long commitment. The work requires a long-term commitment. An effective youth mentor establishes and upholds a relationship with a child over a period of at least twelve months. Sometimes, it could take longer if possible. Children generally live on uniformity and habit. The longer someone spends time with them, the higher probability that the children will be successful. Kids who have good relationships with their mentors have higher chances of attaining academic success, and have lower chances of experiencing drug and alcohol abuse.
Education and Skills Requirements
A youth mentor has to possess good listening skills and should be responsible, dependable, considerate, and optimistic. A youth mentor should have the ability to offer children with outlets for new chances and challenges, and provide them the inspiration to realize their dreams and goals. An effective youth mentor does not only invest in a kid’s life through regular time spent with them but also helps them establish an action plan to achieve personal and continuing career goals.
Some schools or organizations require that youth mentors at least have a high school diploma or an associate degree in Human Services. To qualify as a youth mentor you should enjoy spending time with children and have the dedication to help youth succeed in life. Generally, organizations prefer hiring youth mentors who already have the experience working with children. Youth mentors should also pass a criminal background check performed prior to employment. A youth mentor should also be willing to work flexible hours.
Duties and Responsibilities
Essentially, the responsibility of a youth mentor is to create and advance a personal and optimistic relationship with a child. This goal is achieved by regularly conducting meetings with the child and making sure that these meetings are pleasurable and comfy for the child. A youth mentor is also responsible for helping the youth establish their personal goals like improving academic grades or pursuing a degree in college. A youth mentor is also responsible for guiding and helping children make action plans. It is also a youth mentor’s responsibility to motivate and inspire children.
Some youth mentors are responsible for conducting street community outreach to spot kids at high-risk of violence and delinquency. A youth mentor is also responsible for guaranteeing a kid’s attendance to programmed violence lessening programs; identifying and providing resources, referrals and follow-ups for the kid’s re-education, leisure, therapy, employment; and provides assistance in crisis situations that involves children. It is also the duty and responsibility of a youth mentor to create and uphold communication with the kid’s loyal police, probation offer, and other related community resources in the neighborhood.
Salary and Compensation
A youth mentor is a volunteer worker and is not paid like regular workers. Moreover, a youth mentor has its own advantages too. A youth mentor experiences a satisfaction in assisting and guiding a youth to grow, advance, and attain his/her goals.
