At Impact Living Services, we truly recognize the transformative power of mentorship, especially when it comes to youth transitioning out of foster care and into independent living. In fact, our mentorship program not only offers guidance but also provides crucial support at every step of the way. Additionally, we connect these young individuals with positive role models who help them navigate the often challenging journey into adulthood. As a result, they are better equipped to face the obstacles ahead and build a brighter future for themselves.
Why Mentorship Matters
Transitioning from foster care to independent living can be a daunting experience for young adults. Without the consistent support of a family, many face obstacles. This include finding stable housing, securing employment, managing finances, and pursuing education. Mentorship offers a lifeline during this critical period, providing youth with someone. Someone who believes in them, listens to them, and helps them develop the skills they need to succeed.
Mentor vs. Case Worker
All youth in the Independent Living program are assigned a caseworker. A caseworker is a staff member who manages their basic needs and helps them work toward their goals for the duration of their time in the program. They are paid skilled staff who oversee multiple youths. The caseworker’s role is, by nature, designed to be temporary support during their time in the program. A mentor has a much more flexible role that will hopefully be long-term.
How the Mentorship Program Works
The mentorship program at Impact Living Services pairs participating youth with a carefully selected group of mentors called a “Circle.” These mentors are passionate individuals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of young adults. Here’s how the program is structured:
Training Mentors:
Prospective mentors will meet with our volunteer coordinator to go through a “trauma-informed mentorship” training. This training gives mentors a realistic understanding of what the life of a child in foster care is like. It also explains how traumatic experiences can shape who they become as young adults. After training, the mentors will submit their volunteer paperwork, which includes a copy of their driving record and an application for a background check.
Building a Relationship:
Mentors meet regularly with their mentees, offering guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear. Whether discussing career goals, providing advice on daily challenges, or spending quality time together, the relationship is at the program’s core.
Goal Setting and Achievement:
Over time, mentors will learn about the goals that the youth are working on while they are in the independent living program. These are typically educational, financial, relational, and career goals. Most of the mentorship model is relational and organic, but mentors are encouraged to find out how they can come alongside the youth in achieving these goals, offering their support, guidance, and connections to opportunities.
Ongoing Training and Support for Mentors and Youth:
While the official time commitment for an Impact Circle is meeting once every other week for one calendar year, the hope is that the relationships will continue long after the circle has ended. More than anything, youth need natural support systems in their lives that will carry on long after their time at Impact. Our hope is that even though the formal commitment may have ended, the mentors will continue to be a circle of support, encouragement, and counsel after the youth has left our independent living program.
The Benefits of Mentorship
Mentorship through Impact Living Services offers a range of benefits for both the mentees and mentors:
-
For Youth:
- Increased Confidence: Having a mentor helps youth build self-esteem and confidence, knowing they have someone in their corner who believes in their potential.
- Life Skills Development: Mentors help youth develop essential life skills, from financial literacy to time management, crucial for independent living.
- Emotional Support: Mentors provide emotional stability and a sense of belonging, which can be especially important for youth who may feel isolated or unsupported.
- Better Outcomes: Youth with mentors are more likely to stay in school, find employment, and avoid risky behaviors. Combined these lead to better long-term outcomes.
- Extended Circle of Influence: Youth, many of who have not had the opportunity to have meaningful long-term connections, can be introduced to friends and family of the Circle members. This extends their network for access to jobs, resources, and positive relationships.
-
For Mentors:
- Sense of Fulfillment: Mentors often find the experience deeply rewarding, knowing they are positively impacting a young person’s life.
- Personal Growth: Mentoring allows individuals to develop their communication, leadership, and empathy skills.
- Building Connections: Mentors often build solid and lasting relationships with their mentees, creating a sense of community and connection.
How to Get Involved
If you’re passionate about making a difference and have the time and commitment to mentor a young person, we’d love to hear from you. Becoming a mentor with Impact Living Services is an opportunity to be part of something significant and life-changing. Start your journey here.