How Am I Matched?
Once you complete the application, training and background check process, Steve Seaton or Ben Emerson will introduce you to your mentee. Steve and/or Ben will continue to meet with you and your match until you are comfortable meeting on your own.
How Do the Mentors/Mentees Spend Time Together?
*Mentoring is not time-consuming but simply time-sharing. It’s inviting a child to share a meal with you, and later in a hobby/activity that is important to you.
*Mentoring doesn’t have to be expensive. It can simply be sharing one meal a week.
*Mentoring does not expose you to any dangerous situations. It can be done in the school setting during lunch time. For a child to receive a mentor they have to volunteer, it is not mandatory, so every child on our waiting list is eagerly awaiting a mentor.
*Mentoring doesn’t just change the life of a child but the one who is mentoring as well. Thank you for sharing a little of your time each week to change the life of a child that is in need of love and guidance.
Appropriate Physical Contact:
- Shows affection
- Has limits: a side hug is all that is needed and allowed. Physical contact can be misinterpreted.
- It means different things to different people. No sexual contact, verbal or visual stimulation is allowed.
How Do I Handle Problems?
Never Promise Absolute Confidentiality:
- Never keep “secrets” that can harm.
- Someone is being hurt.
- Someone is planning to hurt others.
Appropriate Confidentiality
- Keep personal matters private.
- Don’t share issues with family, friends or church.
- Share problems with Steve Seaton if you have any questions/concerns.
*State law and our policy require us to report any reasonable cause to suspect abuse.
If a Child Discloses Abuse, Go to BAT for Them.
- Believe what is said.
- Affirm your concern for the child.
- Tell the schools’ school resource officer (SRO) immediately.
How Do I Know If There Is Abuse or Neglect?
- If you see bruises in unusual patterns.
- If there are injuries and lack of food, clothing or shelter.
- If a child is being consistently or severely threatened.
It is rare for a volunteer to be confronted with this issue.
Who are the kids?
The kids are referred by the School Board. Once referred, the mentor supervisor meets with the child to explain the mentoring program, then assigns a mentor if they agree to see one.
Mentoring is not mandatory but voluntary for the child. If they do not want a mentor, one is not assigned to them. This removes most of the anxiety for the mentor and the child.
Why are they referred?
They are referred because it is evident to the School Board and IAM4kids that the child is in need of an adult in their life who can offer the love and guidance they are lacking.