Mentor Job Description Updated March 22nd, 2010 Break the Cycle of New Jersey is a movement that is aimed to mentor children with one or both parents in prison. The mentoring program seeks adult mentors to serve in their local community. These mentors are willing to commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to a child for one hour a week for at least one year. The mentor will help the young person make positive life choices that enable them to become positive contributing members of society. By becoming part of the social network of adults and community members who care about the youth the mentor can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals. Mentor Role Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-on-one relationship Serve as a positive role model and friend Build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together Strive for mutual respect Build self-esteem and motivation Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them Mentor Requirements Be willing to mentor in the following counties: Sussex, Passaic, Morris, Warren, Hunterdon, Essex, Somerset, Middlesex, Mercer, Camden, Atlantic or Cumberland counties Be interested in working with young people Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures Complete the application and screening process Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information Have access to reliable transportation or 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 in current treatment for substance abuse and have a non-addictive period of at least five years Not in current treatment for a mental illness or hospitalized for such in the past three years Desirable Qualities Willing listener Encouraging and supportive Patient and flexible Tolerant and respectful of individual differences Time Commitment Make a one-year commitment Spend a minimum of one hour per week one-on-one with a mentee Communicate with the mentee weekly Practical Benefits for Mentors 55 years or older Mentors 55 years or older will be Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) enrollees Free supplemental on-the-job Liability Insurance Free supplemental on-the-job Accidental and Auto Liability Insurance Mileage and expenses are tax deductible Training sessions and group activities Mentee/mentor group activities, complimentary tickets to community events, participant recognition events Personal Benefits A feeling of self-satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals Improved physical health from being actively engaged in positive acts of care and assistance An opportunity to use your current skills and learn new skills Personal fulfillment through contribution to community and individual Personal ongoing support, supervision to help the match succeed Application and Screening Process Written application Phone call to inquire 3 references Background check: local police, PSI, national child offender, and motor vehicle