Become a Volunteer Mentor

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Reach out. Make a Difference. Mentor a Teen.
Are you a good listener?
Do you enjoy spending time with young people?
Did you have someone in your life, when you were a teen, who helped you become who you are today?

Mentors are caring adults who want to make a difference in the life of a young person. Our mentors range in age from 21 to 75 and they come from all different professional, cultural, geographic, religious and ethnic backgrounds. A mentor does not act as a social worker, a teacher or a parent, but rather as a compassionate friend and role model. Whether you are a working professional, a graduate student, a parent, or a retired adult – everyone has something they can share with a young person. Mentors often report that they are amazed by the positive impact the relationship has on all aspects of their lives.

As a mentor, you’ll be able to support the positive development of a young person by helping them explore their interests, their goals and their community. You might go for a bike ride or to a sporting event, explore Boston, go out to dinner or the movies, or help them to get a job or internship. Your imagination and your interests will be your guide. Monthly group activities, trainings and consistent support are provided by program staff.

We are committed to providing a safe and rewarding mentoring experience to young people and mentors alike. Therefore, we invest in a careful, well-thought-out application and matching process designed to serve the best interests of all. We look forward to working with you in achieving this goal.

Am I eligible to participate?

  • I am at least 21 years of age.
  • I can participate for at least 1 year.
  • I have 6 hours a month to spend with my mentee.
  • I am willing to undergo the entire screening process, including a check of my criminal background and a six-hour mentor training session.
  • I have access to an automobile or have reliable and safe transportation to transport my mentee. If applicable, I have a current driver’s license and a clean driving record.
  • I am willing to communicate with program staff regularly throughout the program year to receive support and supervision during the time I am matched with a mentee.
  • How do I become a Mentor?
    1. Fill out an application and return it to Debbie Tyson-Gottlieb via:

    Email: Debbie@thenewtonpartnership.org
    Mail: Mentor Connection
    The Newton Partnership
    246 Dudley Road
    Newton, MA 02459

    2. Once your application is received, we will be in touch to schedule an in-person interview and home visit.

    3. You will be asked to provide three references (combination of personal and professional) that we may contact and we will also complete an extensive check of your criminal background and driving record.

    4. Once the screening process is complete, you will be asked to attend a 6-hour training prior to being matched.

    Deborah Tyson-Gottlieb

    Mentor Connection Director

    Phone: (617) 544-7247

    Email the Director

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