North x Southwest Mentoring Project
Run by Neighborhood House
Program Details
Recruitment Status
- Accepting Male Mentors: Yes
- Accepting Female Mentors: Yes
- Accepting Male Mentees: Wait list
- Accepting Female Mentees: Yes
Program Description
North x Southwest Mentoring Project seeks to assist young people in reaching their full potential through one-to-one relationships with positive adult role models. Our volunteer mentors offer friendship, support and guidance while providing community-based opportunities for cultural, social and recreational enrichment. Mentoring activities are scheduled at the convenience of mentors and families. Mentors and youth have fun together, and ultimately the volunteer benefits from the satisfaction of giving something back to the community. Mentoring does make a difference!
Ages of Youth in the Program
7 to 14
Description of Youth in the Program
Youth ages 7-14 years who reside in Southwest or North Portland and are in need of extra support and guidance from a caring adult volunteer. We give preference to students who attend schools served by a Neighborhood House SUN School program and to families with a single parent and other risk factors.
Quality Standards of Program
*Volunteer mentors must be at least 18 years of age and responsible, law-abiding adults who care about children and are comfortable with them. Mentors get together with their matched young person for at least 8 to 12 hours per month for a minimum of one year. The volunteer screening process includes: a completed application, checking employment and personal references, a national background and driving records check, an extensive interview, and an orientation/training session. Families are also interviewed prior to placement and are asked to submit a bi-monthly evaluation of their child's progress.
Youth Goals and Outcomes
To contribute to successful mentoring matches which offer friendship, support and guidance while providing opportunities for cultural, social and recreational enrichment. To empower young people to move on to future healthy, constructive relationships.
After a solid and trusting relationship has been established, individual mentors may set more specific goals with their mentees--such as improving school attendance or performance, improving social skills, exploring future career options, or graduating from high school.
Mentor Profile
Mentors must be at least 18 years of age. We seek individuals who demonstrate patience and commitment. We also expect our volunteers to demonstrate cultural sensitivity and the ability to maintain confidentiality. They should be at least six months past any major life upheaval. They should be able to provide proof of vehicle insurance and have an acceptable driving record. And they should be willing to adhere to program policies.
Types of Mentoring
- Volunteer with one youth (one-to-one mentoring)
Place Where Mentoring Occurs
- Community-based (community activities might include, sports, meals, museums, concerts, etc.)
Hours Needed
- Weekday After School: 3 pm to 5 pm
- Weekday Evenings: 5 pm to 9 pm
- Weekend
Contact Information
Web: www.nhweb.org
Contact: John Grueschow
Phone: (503) 869-8623
Email: jgrueschow@nhweb.org
Locations Served
- Multnomah County



