About mentoring
"I joined this program to 'make a difference in the life of a teen.' I have learned so much from the workshops that I have applied in my own life. My own relationships have improved dramatically since joining Community for Youth."

What does it take to be a Community for Youth mentor? Dependability, patience, flexibility... and most of all, a relentless commitment to a young person's success. CfY mentors come from all walks of life. They are single and married, in early careers and retired, of all ethnic groups, beliefs and lifestyles. In short, they are like our students - diverse, inquisitive, open to new experiences, and willing to grow and change.

Mentor Training
Formal training prepares mentors to meet their student. Mentors learn role-modeling skills and receive on-going coaching in the areas of setting goals, keeping promises and handling mistakes responsibly in their own lives. Mentors practice acknowledging student accomplishments and guiding them to achieve their goals step by step.

Mentor orientation sessions begin in late August and continue through November. On-going monthly mentor training continues throughout the school year. Our staff is in frequent contact with mentors to offer support and coaching. Students are interviewed in the fall and matched with mentors a few days after the completion of their launch course at Match Night. Mentors work with students for the entire school year.

Mentors support students in reaching their academic and personal goals. Being a mentor is a tough and rewarding job. Both mentors and student set goals for the year and support each other in reaching the goals they set.

“It's such a gift to be included in my student's life, having her call just to chat and share what's going on. Her relationships have improved dramatically over the last year with parents, teachers, peers and me.”
- Christie, Mentor

“Recently relocated to Seattle, my mentoring experience with CFY gave me the immediate connection to my new community and provided me with so many new contacts, resources, and friends in such a short time frame. It’s been an amazing experience!”
- Gerardo, Mentor

“I've gained a real sense of appreciation for the strength of these kids, the unbelievable obstacles they have overcome in their lives. These kids want to succeed!”
- Sandy, Mentor