Merging Science and Mentoring

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Reach & Rise(r) is a national YMCA program (recently partnered with American Institutes for Research to launch the first large scale evaluation of therapeutic mentoring) designed to build a better future for youth by helping them reach their full potential through the support of caring adults. Reach & Rise is a therapeutic mentoring program that provides a comprehensive 15+ hour mentor training with a Cognitive Behavioral Mentoring curriculum focused on building positive, consistent, and supportive relationships, an established protocol for matching mentors and mentees, weekly face-to-face meetings lasting for the duration of 12 - 24 months, the creation of personalized growth plans for youth and families which are assessed on a regular basis, ongoing mentor/mentee support (including structured group activities and support groups), and appropriate processes for closure of match relationships.

Volunteer mentors are at least 21 years of age and are matched with a young person for one year to provide one-to-one mentoring services and create safe, healthy and meaningful relationships with youth. Mentors will gain personal satisfaction from making a difference in a young person's life and have the opportunity to connect with youth and other mentors from different cultures and back¬grounds. In the training, volunteers will learn basic therapeutic and practical approaches to help facilitate positive change. The ideal Reach & Rise mentor is an open-minded, dependable, responsible adult who wants to share new interests and experiences with youth.