Volunteer Mentor

Company Description

Citizens for Safe Schools is dedicated to creating a safe and drug-free community where children, especially at-risk youth, can develop resilience, character, and opportunities for success. Through our “Kids in the Middle” mentoring program, caring adult volunteers are paired with youth in grades 4 through 8 for mentoring on a one-to-one basis. With a strong presence in Klamath County, OR, our program has been nationally recognized in the top 5% of mentoring programs for fostering positive outcomes such as reduced substance use, decreased violence, and greater future planning among youth. Our efforts emphasize the importance of supporting youth development to strengthen and sustain rural communities.

Role Description

This is a volunteer role based in Klamath County, OR. Mentors will dedicate a minimum of one hour per week, over the course of at least one year, to provide guidance, support, and positive role modeling to an at-risk youth in grades 4 through 8. Day-to-day tasks include building trust and rapport with mentees, engaging in meaningful activities, fostering personal growth, and helping youth explore positive behaviors and future goals. Mentors play a vital role in creating a safe, supportive environment for their assigned youth.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to actively listen and provide support
• Experience working with youth or a strong interest in mentoring children and adolescents
• Patience, empathy, and the ability to build meaningful relationships with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Commitment to dedicating time consistently on a weekly basis for a minimum of one year
• Ability to collaborate with program staff and provide regular updates on mentee progress
• Familiarity with the challenges and opportunities facing at-risk youth is a plus
• Background checks and participation in a mentor training session are required