What is mentoring?

Who in your life saw your potential?  Who recognized you for the strengths you had?  Who showed you another way to do things or think about a problem?  Who encouraged you to explore your own options?  Who challenged you because they believed in who you could become?  For many of us, that was our parents.  For some it may have been the neighbor or a teacher.  In truth, these are our mentors.

Mentors are people who choose to be our friends, coaches, cheerleaders, confidants, advisors, and tutors.  They give us their time and attention freely that others either did not have or choose to give.

Who would I be mentoring?

TRAC’s youth are in transition.  They are aging out of substitute care which includes foster homes and juvenile services.  Many come from a background of abuse or neglect.  When they turn 18, they are adults in name only.  These youth are not prepared or ready for independent living.  For the first time in their lives they are totally on their own.  Many lack confidence in themselves to succeed; and some lack the basic skills needed to find a job, keep an apartment, handle money, or make decisions that will advance their independence.  Without a family to support them, these teens desperately need positive role models to develop healthy, trusting relationships. 

What is a mentor’s commitment?

Are you willing to offer the benefit of your life experience to help our teens become better adults? Just a few hours a month can support our young adults in making responsible decisions; will encourage job seekers and students; or simply help a teen get through the day-to-day trials of being on their own.  Training is provided.  Volunteers must be over 21 and make a year commitment.  Background check is required.

If you are willing to consider being a TRAC mentor, contact  Kathaleen Dean at 214.370.9300x20.

TRAC is in the process of creating more volunteer opportunities. If you would like to work with TRAC youth, but Mentoring is not for you, please call Kathaleen Dean to discuss your interests.

You can also check our calendar to see when orientations are scheduled.