Description

Position Title: Amigos Mentor 

Program: Amigos 

Reports to: Amigos Supervisor 

Status: Full-time (30 hours/week), Non-exempt

Position Summary:

Family Services of the Merrimack Valley is seeking a full time, 30 hours per week, Mentor for its Amigos mentoring program. This exciting, new program is a result of the EOHHS Strong Communities Initiative Grant Program which supports community-based violence prevention and intervention programs that promote equitable access to protective factors. Amigos Mentoring will provide positive adult role models who form consistent and positive relationships with youth, boosting protective factors meant to reduce the likelihood for gun and community violence. 

The Mentor position involves providing individualized, strength-focused assistance to children and adolescents aged 8-14. The primary objective is to serve as a positive role model and companion. While both mentors and mentees benefit from the one-on-one mentoring relationship, the mentor's main responsibility is to enhance their mentees' self-confidence and cultivate a more optimistic perspective for the future. This is achieved through spending quality time together and teaching the youth valuable skills in communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and appropriate behaviors for their age group. Ultimately, the aim is to empower them to thrive in their homes, schools, and communities.

DUTIES INCLUDE: 

· Provide individualized, strength-focused assistance to children and adolescents aged 8-14.

· Serve as a positive role model and companion for mentees.

· Enhance mentees' self-confidence and cultivate a more optimistic perspective for the future.

· Spend quality time with mentees to build a strong mentoring relationship.

· Teach valuable skills in communication, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and appropriate behaviors for their age group.

· Empower mentees to thrive in their homes, schools, and communities.

· Support mentees in setting and achieving personal goals.

· Encourage mentees to explore their interests and develop new talents.

· Provide guidance and support in navigating challenges and making positive choices.

· Collaborate with other mentors and program staff to ensure the overall success of the mentoring program.

· Maintain regular communication with mentees' parents or guardians to provide updates on progress and address any concerns.

· Keep accurate records of mentoring activities, goals, and outcomes.

· Attend training and professional development sessions to enhance mentoring skills and knowledge.

· Adhere to all program policies and guidelines.

· Maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of mentees and their families.

· Contribute to a collaborative and positive team culture by actively participating in team discussions, communicating ideas, challenges, and successes openly and professionally. 

Requirements

• Successful completion of a Bachelor’s degree in a human service field of study or at a minimum an Associate’s degree preferred.
• Previous experience working with children and adolescents, preferably in a mentoring or counseling role.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.· Ability to establish a positive and trusting relationship with mentees.
• Empathy and understanding of the unique challenges faced by youth in the specified age group.
• Knowledge of effective mentoring techniques and strategies.
• Ability to effectively teach and model essential life skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.· Patience, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to the individual needs and preferences of mentees.
• Strong organizational and time management skills to effectively plan and coordinate mentoring activities.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Knowledge of child development and age-appropriate behaviors.
• Ability to work collaboratively with program staff, parents or guardians, and other mentors.
• Commitment to promoting the well-being and positive development of youth.
• Willingness to undergo background checks and screening processes as required by the organization.
• Valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
• Understanding and adherence to the organization's mission, values, and code of conduct.

ABOUT FAMILY SERVICES OF THE MERRIMACK VALLEY 

FSMV is a non-profit, social service organization located in Lawrence, MA. The organization helps more than 7,000 people in the Merrimack Valley each year through 20 programs focused on youth development, parent education and emotional health. All of its services are infused with a sense of hope and possibility and enable individuals to thrive in their family, community, workplace and school. For more information, please visit www.FSMV.org. FSMV is an equal opportunity employer.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

This is a full-time, 30 hours per week, flexible position. Pay range is $22 - $24 per hour, commensurate upon education and/or experience. This role is eligible for a $1,000 BONUS. FSMV offers an excellent benefit package including a flexible and supportive work environment, competitive health and dental insurances, fully paid life and long-term disability insurances, optional voluntary life insurance along with training and professional development opportunities. FSMV also offers a generous time off policy for employees working 30 hours or more per week including 4 paid weeks of Earned Time Off as well as 13 paid holidays per year! An amazing opportunity to work with and learn from a team of dedicated, passionate individuals in a diverse environment that serve children, youth, and adults.