Formal Youth Mentoring Programs

Mentoring can occur naturally, but for many people the relationship is more successful when created and supported by a structured program.

Oregon has hundreds of mentoring programs -- including several nationally-recognized models. The main benefit of participating in a formal program format for a young person or volunteer is knowing that the program staff have planned for the participants’ safety, fun and success.

The target populations and goals for Oregon’s mentoring programs vary. Many programs consider a child’s age, ethnicity, aspirations, or other circumstances in recruiting them to participate. Before you volunteer, donate, or register your child, it’s a good idea to identify the goals of each mentoring program and compare them to your values.

Not all mentoring programs are alike in quality. Ask questions of the program during your interview. (Lack of an interview process is a red flag.) The indicators of a high-quality program include:

• Staff are responsive and attentive to personal needs
• The program is organized and structured
• The program adheres to the national Elements of Effective Practice

You can search for a program or see a list of all mentoring programs in Oregon and Southwest Washington.