Become a Mentor: Barnabas Ministries: Group Mentoring

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Barnabas Ministries is a Christian-based mentoring program for high-risk adolescents in the West Michigan area. We desire to live out Christ's love by example by bringing the hope and healing of Jesus Christ to the hurting teens of our community one at a time. Barnabas serves youth aged 11-18 in Allegan, Kent, and Ottawa Counties. Our group programs typically run for 10 weeks or less and are planned by staff. Christian adult mentors are paired one-on-one with a youth within the group setting. The purpose of these groups is to work on life skills with the youth and provide positive adult role models for them. One youth said "Thanks for taking the time to set up things like girls group! The things we learn I keep with me and I am reminded of it everyday!!!"

Barnabas Ministries Mentors are Christian adults trained to come alongside youth and help them make choices in their daily lives. They are positive role models for youth, keeping them accountable and helping the youth to realize their potential. Group mentors commit to meet with the group once a week for the full 10-week session. Potential mentors must complete an application, including background checks, and attend training.




Seeking Female Volunteers: Yes

Seeking Male Volunteers: Yes

Minimum Match Commitment (in months): 3 months

Type of Mentoring: Group

Youth Population Served: Academically At-Risk, Adjudicated/court involved, Foster, Residential or Kinship Care, Gang At-Risk, Gang involved, General Youth Population, Gifted/Talented/Academic Achiever, Homeless/Runaway, Incarcerated Parent, LGBTQ Youth, Low Income, Mental Health Issues, Parent Involved in Military, Pregnant/Parenting, Recent Immigrant/Refugee, School Drop-Out, Single-Parent Household, Special Education, Youth with Disabilities, Other

Mentoring Program Goals: Friendship/Socialization, Healthy Behaviors, Reduce Recidivism

Ages of Youth Served: 11-14, 15-18