What are the responsibilities and job description for the College Mentor (Volunteer) position at My Sister's Keeper Youth Empowerment?
Company Description My Sister’s Keeper Youth Empowerment partners with colleges and universities to support and uplift girls of color through mentorship and community. The organization’s mission is to empower, enrich, and engage young girls by connecting them with college mentors who foster personal growth, academic readiness, and leadership development. Through programs like Girls Rising, My Sister’s Keeper offers a culturally responsive, interactive curriculum that addresses self-esteem, healthy relationships, communication, conflict resolution, and identity development. The organization is committed to creating safe, inclusive spaces where girls can build confidence, develop essential life skills, and become positive contributors to their schools, families, and communities. By nurturing meaningful mentorship relationships, My Sister’s Keeper helps prepare the next generation of change-makers for a more equitable future.
Role Description We’re seeking passionate undergraduate and graduate students to serve as volunteer mentors for our 2026–2027 program year. Mentors will facilitate meaningful relationships with middle school girls while supporting curriculum focused on communication, healthy relationships, self-worth, leadership, and personal development. In this role, mentors meet regularly with middle school participants to build trusting relationships, model positive behavior, and provide guidance on academic, social, and personal challenges. Mentors help facilitate Girls Rising program sessions, including group discussions, workshops, and skill-building activities focused on self-esteem, communication, healthy relationships, and leadership. Day-to-day responsibilities include preparing lesson materials, collaborating with program staff, supporting students during school or after-school programming, and maintaining a safe, inclusive environment. Mentors also participate in ongoing training, reflection, and supervision to ensure high-quality support for youth and alignment with the organization’s mission.
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong mentoring, coaching, and youth engagement skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with middle school students.
- Experience facilitating group discussions, workshops, or activities focused on personal development, social-emotional learning, or leadership.
- Excellent communication, active listening, and conflict resolution skills, including the ability to support healthy relationships and positive decision-making.
- Demonstrated commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practices, especially in working with girls of color.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with school staff, program coordinators, and other mentors in a team-based environment.
- Strong organizational and time management skills to balance mentoring responsibilities, preparation, and documentation.
- Enrollment in or completion of a college or university program preferred, particularly in education, social work, psychology, or related fields.
- Prior experience volunteering or working with youth in school, community, or nonprofit settings is highly beneficial.
Time Commitment
- Weekly mentorship sessions during the academic year.
- Required mentor training prior to program launch.
- Participation in select program events.
What You'll Gain
- Leadership and facilitation experience.
- Professional development and mentorship training.
- Meaningful community impact.
- Opportunities to build relationships with fellow mentors and community partners.
- Volunteer/service hours and a professional reference upon successful completion of the program.