At its core, mentoring guarantees young people that there is someone who cares about them, assures them they are not alone in dealing with day-to-day challenges, and makes them feel like they matter.
At Speak Out, we utilize a traditional 1-to-1 Mentoring Model that places one adult in a relationship with one young person for a 6-12 month period.
MATCHING
Research confirms that quality mentoring relationships have powerful positive effects on young people in a variety of personal, academic, and professional situations. Ultimately, mentoring connects a young person, based on shared goals, objectives, and experiences, to personal growth and development, and social and economic opportunity.
PEER SUPPORT
Support comes not only from the Mentor but from peers within the program as well. This provides for greater exposure to multiple levels of expertise and knowledge as each participant brings their own competencies to the program that can be shared. It is also a mutual way of learning and allows all participants to develop transferable skills that will help them on their journey towards optimum wellness.
PROCESS
All mentors will go through a three-week training model as well as ongoing training from licensed professionals and trained life and relationship coaches in the area of:
- Addressing mental health,
- Managing healthy platonic and intimate relationships, and
- Prevention, treatment and self-love related to living with HIV/AIDS.
We are actively looking for mentors across our chapters. Please apply today if you are interested in becoming a mentor, or contact Speak Out Board Member Charles Edward with additional questions.