NCJ Number
163666
Date Published
1994
Length
55 pages
Annotation
The nature of mentoring and the reasons it promotes positive and lasting changes among youth are described.
Abstract
Mentoring is a one-to-one relationship through which an adult assists a young person's development of character and competence. Mentoring relationships can be devoted to personal, academic, or career development and social, athletic, or artistic growth. Six types of mentoring programs include intensive, community-based programs; school-based programs; court-based programs; programs based on careers or hobbies; programs based on college and university campuses; and church-based programs. A good mentor has multiple roles: supportive friends, role models, confidants, and advocates. Mentoring benefits the mentor as well as the youth. Issues to be considered in establishing a mentoring program include design, the recruitment of mentors, the selection of youth, funding, and oversight. Components of the screening and selection process include an application form, an interview form, an interests and activities inquiry, reference letters, a background check. Addresses of resource organizations and 26 references