United Way Mentoring/ Guided Growth
Requirements for becoming a mentor:
- Must be at least 18 years of age and have a driver’s license.
- Complete an application and provide 4 references. Download volunteer application.
- Pass a criminal/driving check. Download the criminal/background form.
- Attend a three hour training session
- Have an interview by CCT! staff person in your home.
Mentoring
CCT!'s mentoring program involves matching a caring adult (outside of the youth’s family) who spends 1-4 hours a week, one-on-one, with a young person.
The young people, ages 5-17, are referred from a variety of sources, including Chatham County Schools, Chatham Counseling Center, the Department of Social Services, the Office of Juvenile Justice, and parents and family members themselves.
The young people have a variety of needs, skills and interests and they live all over Chatham County and represent the racial and ethnic diversity of the county.
Our selection process
A screening committee, made up of three CCT! volunteers, reviews an applicant’s file and makes the recommendation for approval of the applicant.
Once accepted, staff and prospective volunteer work together to find a suitable match. Parents and youth are contacted for their input then if all parties are in agreement, CCT! staff bring volunteers to young person’s home for an introduction and to sign papers.
Volunteer, Youth and family agree to meet for an average number of hours a week, for a year. CCT! staff provide supervision, support and activities throughout the year. At the end of the year, if all parties agree to continue the match, then it continues. Anyone can refer a young person. Download our Youth Referral Form.
Guided Growth
For kids who are waiting for a mentor, we offer what's called "Guided
Growth" activities, and include these kids in any event that would increase
their self esteem, social and recreational skills, decision making and
academic skills. These activities may be large and small group activities, camp placements, community service projects or tutoring. Funded by United Way and Chatham County Government.
