Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mentoring?
Mentoring is the presence of a caring responsible adult who, along with the gaurdian or parent, provides support, motivation, guidance, advice and friendship in order to help a young person succeed.

What does Mentoring mean to a child?
To a child mentoring means to have a responsible, caring role model and friend to look up to. This role model can help them achieve thier goals in life.

Once I become a mentor how do I begin contact with my mentee?
Once you have passed the background investigation and have attended mentor training, you can begin writing letters to your mentee to provide support while they are here at the program. Scheduled visits may also take place once training has been completed, visits must be authorized and mission specific.

How often can I visit my mentee at the academy?
Mentors, once screened, are allowed to visit their mentee once a week. Visits must be authorized. If mentors would like to eat with their mentee, they can do so during program hours in the dining facility. No food can be brought on campus. Visits are to be mission specific, examples are; discussing post-residential action plan, filling out job applications, assistance on resume etc.

What happens if I run into a problem with my mentee?
If a problem arises in the relationship, the Mentor is encouraged to discuss the problem with the mentee. If the problem persists, The mentor should then contact the Mentor Coordinator.

What if my help is not wanted?
It is not easy for a young person to trust an adult, it may take a long time to build trust in the mentoring relationship. You as the mentor cannot interpret caution as rejection, it is likely that the youth may not even know that they need your assistance. Patience and time is the key.