Description
The Mentor is an individual adult, adult couple or a family willing to befriend a child. The LAMP-Kinship concept prescribes a one-to-one friendship between a mature, stable adult and a child, or in the case of couples, two adults and a child. The goal of this program is that over a period of time, with professional support, supervision and consultation, the Mentor will positively influence the emotional and social growth of the child through friendship, role-modeling and enrichment.
The Mentor provides support, guidance, friendship and recreational opportunities. The Mentor is not a peer, a counselor nor a substitute parent; rather, he/she is an older, responsible, mature person who cares for and about the child. The Mentor is a person who is capable of making the following commitments when matched with a child.
1. To see the child on a regular basis, approximately four times every month for a minimum of 1 hour per week or 4 hours per month, in which there shall be two face to face meetings at least twice per month; (exceptions can be made by the program director).
2. To maintain this consistent schedule, within reason, for a minimum of two years, with the understanding that formal involvement expires when the child turns 18, has graduated from high school or until otherwise advised by the agency.
3. To maintain contact with the professional staff member who monitors that match, according to a prescribed and prearranged schedule.
4. To keep the agency informed of his/her current address and phone number plus any significant developments in his/her life; for example, other adults added to the household.
