Career Mentor Program Volunteer

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The SOY Mentor Program aims to connect young people in grades 10 - 12 with a mentor who works in their career of interest so that young people have an opportunity to explore the field of work they are curious about and identify pathways into the profession. Through the mentor/mentee relationship, young people also learn about the attitude required for success in the workforce, develop resume writing and interview skills, and gain real-world experience via short term internships and on-the-job shadowing opportunities.

Qualifications:

Be at least 25 years old.

Reside in Orange County.

Be interested in supporting and encouraging young people.

Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures

Be willing to complete the application and screening process.

Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments.

Attend mentor training sessions as prescribed.

Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information, and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities.

Have access to an automobile, auto insurance, and a good driving record.

Have a clean criminal history.

No use of illicit drugs.

No use of alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner.

Not currently in treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years.

Not currently in treatment for a mental disorder or hospitalized for such in the past three years.

Responsibilities:

Make a one-year commitment to your mentee.

Attend Mentor/Mentee Monthly one-on-one meetings at SOY (minimum 1 hour meetings).

Arrange for your mentee to visit your workplace twice during the Program duration.

Facilitate at least 1 opportunity for job-shadowing with you at your workplace.

Arrange at least 1 short-term (6 hours per week for 6 weeks) internship opportunity for your mentee at your place of employment.

Arrange a visit to the college/university where you obtained the qualifications required for the work you do (colleges/universities located in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside or San Bernardino counties only).

Assist your mentee with resume writing and conduct at least 1 job interview practice session for your field of employment.

Prepare a character reference for your mentee at the end of the program period for mentees use for job and college applications (hard and electronic copy provided).

Provide your mentee with information about careers of interest and study pathways for those careers including local college visits.

Serve as a positive role model and be available to answer questions about careers and study.

Build the relationship with your mentee by planning mentor program activities.

Develop mutual respect and understanding with your mentee.

Help Build self-esteem and motivation in your mentee.

Help your mentees set goals and identify practical ways to achieve them.

Attend an initial two-hour training session and additional two-hour training sessions twice during each year of participation in the program.

Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events.