Amigos Mentoring Program
A Program of Family Services of the Merrimack Valley
Family Services' Amigos mentoring program matches children ages 8-14 with caring adults to serve as a role model and friend. Although both mentors and mentees benefit from the one-on-one mentoring relationship, the mentor helps to increase their mentees self-confidence and create a more positive outlook for the future by simply spending time together...which makes a BIG difference.
Please note, this Mentor role is a volunteer opportunity where the Mentor receives a weekly stipend, match activity and mileage reimbursements.
Basic "Mentor" Requirements

• Always use good judgment and discretion
• Are responsible, stable, and nurturing members of society
• Are interested in being a friend to a young person
• Are at least 22 years of age
• Come from different social backgrounds, races and religions
• Are willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures
• Are willing to complete the application and screening process
• Will be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments
• Will communicate regularly with program staff and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities

Benefits

• Make a difference in a child's life
• Personal fulfillment through contribution to community and individual
• Satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals
• Personal ongoing support and supervision to help the match succeed
• Mentor/mentee group activities, complimentary tickets to community events, participation recognition events
• Have FUN!
• Receive a weekly stipend, match activity and mileage reimbursements

Time Commitment

• Make a one-year commitment
• Spend 3 hours each week with your mentee and document your outing after each visit
• Attend an initial 6-hour group training session
• Attend mentor/mentee group events twice a year
• Meet monthly in person or via zoom with Program Supervisor for match support

Requirements
Desirable Qualities

• Good sense of humor
• Willing listener
• Encouraging and supportive
• Patient and flexible
• Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
• Bilingual (Spanish) and/or bicultural is a plus!

Role of Mentor:

• Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-on-one relationship
• Serve as a positive role model and friend
• Build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together
• Strive for mutual respect
• Build self-esteem and motivation
• Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them

Application and Screening Process

• Online or Written Application (submit a cover letter and resume)
• Criminal history check National Criminal File, CORI, sexual offender registry
• Motor vehicle records checks
• Personal interview
• Provide 3 references
• Attend 6-hour mentor training

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.