The LID Foundation Mentoring Program is a research-driven approach that empowers youth, mentors and thier families to learn and live life through a wellbeing approach. The mentoring program uses dedicated adult volunteers who commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to a young person. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the youth, the mentor can help youth develop and reach positive personal, purpose academics, career goals, and life goals.
To be a mentor with LID Foundation, you must be at least 19 for school-based matches and at least 21 for community based matches. There is no age cap. We’ve had applying mentors as old as 80 years of age! Every adult has something to offer a child. You cannot have a felony on your record.
To become a mentor you must fill out an application online HERE or request a paper copy. You must pass background checks, provide four references, provide proof of car insurance and a valid driver’s license, be interviewed by a staff member, and attend a training orientation.
Mentors are dependable, consistent, and willing to listen to and communicate with their Mentor Coach. Mentors must have access to an automobile, auto insurance, and a good driving record. Mentors set a good example Mentors who do well are willing listeners, encouraging, supportive, patient, flexible, tolerant, and respectful of individual differences.
You are expected to meet with the child once a week for 2-3 hours per week for a minimum of one year. You will take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship. You will serve as a positive role model and friend. You will build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together (spiritual, life-skills, fun). Strive for mutual respect, build self-esteem and motivation, and help set goals and work toward accomplishing them.
You will be assigned a Mentor Coach who will walk with you the whole way. You will be given a number of ways to contact your Mentor Coach so that you are always able to reach him or her with any questions or concerns you may have. You will go through a training that will begin to equip you for the task ahead. Follow up training and resources are available to you as well.
