Volunteering is fun!
Being a volunteer mentor is one of the most enjoyable things you’ll ever do. Not to mention, one of the most fulfilling. You have the opportunity to help shape a child’s future for the better by empowering them to achieve. And the best part is, it’s actually a lot of fun. You and your Little can share the kinds of activities you already like to do.
Play sports together. Go on a hike. Read books. Eat a pizza with extra anchovies. Or just give some advice and inspiration. Whatever it is you enjoy, odds are you’ll enjoy them even more with your Mentee—and you’ll be making a life-changing impact.
If you are a High School student and want to apply to be a mentor in our after-school programs at:
How It Works
Becoming a volunteer mentor in our program is easy. It is designed to build a match based on shared interests, personality and your volunteer preferences.
Spending Time with Your Little
Once matched, as a Mentor, you will develop a friendship with your Mentee. Whether playing a video game, grabbing a pizza, or simply hanging out – you bring magic into the life of a child. It’s just that simple.
Quick Steps to Become a Mentor
1) Inquire Online.
Inquire today to speak with Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring
2) Apply
Ready to take the next step right now? Complete the online application. This will help speed up the process. After you inquire online, a match coordinator will contact you to complete the application process and set up an interview.
3) Interview
A match coordinator will interview you in person.
4) Background Check
Child safety is our priority, so we’ll review your records to ensure you’ll be a good fit for our program.
5) References
You’ll need to provide references of people we can talk to about your ability to be a mentor.
6) Matching
We will review the kids in your area who need a mentor and find the best fit for you. Depending on your gender and the kind of child you’d like to work with, matching may go very quickly or take some time. Making the right match is important to our commitment to form lasting relationships.
Be a Male Mentor
Male Mentors Wanted!
Though Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring is always looking for volunteers from all walks of life, right now there is a greater need for men.
You know how to play board games, talk about sports and Just hang out and share ideas — so what are you waiting for? Volunteer now! It really is that simple. Sign up today.
Being a mentor is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do. As a Mentor, you get to be a kid again for an hour a week while you give a child the invaluable gift of your friendship. Of the many boys waiting for a male role-model right now, there’s one wanting to play video games, shoot hoops, or just hang out with someone just like you!
Why do we need Male Mentors?
More than 75% of the children that are waiting for a Mentor are boys, but only Two out of every 10 inquiries to become volunteers come from men. Research shows that having the positive influence of a male mentor makes a real difference in the life of a boy. So join the volunteers that give a young person someone to look up to and learn why so many are now saying, “I get back so much more than I give.”
You’ve been thinking about getting involved. Now you know the importance of volunteering, how easy it is, and how much your help is needed. Why not apply to be a mentor today?
Be a Female Mentor
Volunteering is fun!
Being a female mentor is simple and rewarding. It is as easy as showing your new Mentee how to play a favorite video game, bake an apple pie or reading a book together. We’ve learned that being someone special to a child doesn’t take much more than that. But the impact is huge—for both of you!
Children need the friendship and guidance of someone like YOU.
“Every activity is a favorite thing in the whole world. I’m really excited about being able to expose Jessica to different experiences and perhaps broaden her horizons.”
– Lillian, female mentor
Being a mentor will touch your heart. Here are some wonderful stories that will give you a glimpse of what it means to become a mentor.
HOW TO DO IT
How to Apply
Established for Over 40 Years
The easiest and fastest way to get started is to complete our application. After you complete a short form online, a Mid-Ohio Youth Mentoring staff member will contact you to continue the application process.
You’ll need to:
Provide References
Participate in an in-person interview
Go through a criminal history record check
We're here to help
Have a question? Don’t worry. We will be happy to guide you through the application process. And when it’s time to make a match we’ll help you meet a Little in your area who shares your interests – and we’ll support you all the way. We’ll even give you some great ideas for activities that other matched pairs have enjoyed through the years!
Looking for more information right away? Review answers to commonly asked questions in our FAQs.
You’ve been thinking about getting involved. Now you know the importance of volunteering, how easy it is, and how much your help is needed. Why not apply to be a Mentor today?