No other program in Kentucky gives high risk youth such a proven opportunity for positive change. Mentoring Plus follows a proven methodology to help teens overcome the obstacles they face and turn them into opportunities through life coaching, spiritual guidance and family support. We don't take our program lightly - its design is evidenced-based and formed from best practices. Most importantly, everyone's situation is unique, so each teen's needs are addressed individually, in accordance with our three-step process.
Youth between the ages of 13 and 18 are referred to Mentoring Plus through the local juvenile justice office, school, community organization or agency. Acceptance into Mentoring Plus is based upon specific criteria addressed through a needs assessment and those most in need of services. Each teen is in the program for a minimum of twelve months.
A Coordinated Care Plan (CCP) is developed, which comprehensively outlines all needs, goals, youth and family strengths and specific service needs, with the goal of reducing risk factors and increasing protective factors. Although the CCP is driven primarily by the needs of the teen, we also endeavor to address critical family needs and issues such as food, housing and employment. This is directly tied to our belief that family stability and support of youth goals are critical factors to a child's willingness to change and be successful.
We match the teen with a life coach. Together, they meet in a weekly gathering with other matches to participate in structured activities. The evening typically begins with the entire group sharing a meal, followed by individual break-out sessions between teens and their mentors. During this time, each teen and mentor focus on issues such as substance abuse, education, job and career preparation and life skills. The second weekly contact is by phone, email or text. Program staff work with the youth and family throughout the week on meeting needs and achieving goals. This assures full support and participation at home, as well as establishing consistency.
Description
Mentoring Plus uses adult volunteers to commit to supporting, guiding, and being a adult friend to a young person for a period of at least one year. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the youth, the Life Coach can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.
Life Coach Role:
Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship Serve as a positive role model and adult friend Build the relationship by participating in activities together Strive for mutual respect Build self-esteem and motivation Time Commitment: One evening a week for one year
