“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” ― Benjamin FranklinBenjamin Franklin

 Research confirms that mentoring works. A Research Brief published by Child Trends and titled "Mentoring: A Promising Strategy for Youth Development" found that youth who participate in mentoring relationships experience a number of positive benefits.Mentoring: A Promising Strategy for Youth Development  In terms of educational achievement, mentored youth have better attendance; a better chance of going on to higher education; and better attitudes toward school.  In terms of health and safety, mentoring appears to help prevent substance abuse and reduce some negative youth behaviors.  On the social and emotional development front, taking part in mentoring promotes positive social attitudes and relationships. Mentored youth tend to trust their parents more and communicate better with them.

 Two lead staff  Site buy-in  Mentor Training  Selection process for protégés  Orientation for protégés and parents  Match mentors and protégés  Weekly mentoring and rap sessions  Closure process  Evaluation

 Standards of Practice  A safe environment ▪ Physical Safety ▪ Emotional Safety  Opportunities for Community Engagement ▪ Knowledge of Community ▪ Interaction/Interface with the Community ▪ Communication with the Community ▪ Contribution to the Community

 Opportunities for Leadership and Advocacy  Decision-Making and Governance  Youth Voice  Action

 Opportunities to Build Caring and Meaningful Relationships with Peers and Adults  Peer Knowledge  Adult Knowledge/Guidance  Emotional Support  Practical Support  Sense of Belonging

 (NCLB Domain) Opportunities to Develop Healthy Personal Attitudes and Behavior  Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs (ATOD)  Violence Prevention  Academic Completion/Fostering Learning

 Roles and Responsibilities  Role-Modeling  Attention and Concern  Accountability  Listening  Unconditional Acceptance and Support  Academic Support  Communication  Leadership

 Planning a Session  Sign-in and Snack  Welcome  Icebreaker  Group Activity  Discussion  One-on-One Time  Drawing  Closing

 Curriculums  FNL Supplemental Lessons  Energizers/Icebreakers  Funding Supported Curriculum

 Volunteer high school students mentoring specifically referred middle school students  Looks to:  Improve grades  Improve attendance  Decrease violence  Decrease ATOD use or further prevent initial involvement  Help participants identify positive influences and the importance of positive attitudes and involvement

 Meeting new people and getting to know them by sharing personal experiences and talking about issues as a group.  Spending time with mentors and participating in Shadow Day.  Learning more about alcohol and drugs and ways to make healthy life decisions.  The games and icebreakers.  The safe, judgment free environment of the program where youth can work out their problems.