One-On-One Mentoring

One-On-One Mentoring 
We match adults who have previously been in foster care (foster care alumni), with youth who are currently in the foster care system ages 16 to 17.  The mentor/mentee match is a two year commitment. Our mentors and mentees meet at least eight hours per month one-on-one and one additional hour of contact in either a group setting, on the phone, or on-line.

To support our matches, we offer personal staff support for our mentors and mentees, as well as, bi-monthly trainings for our mentors and quarterly outings for our matches where our mentors and mentees can get together to connect with each other while enjoying a fun activity.

Our mentors provide guidance for our youth as they navigate the systems that provide life skills, educational, financial, mental, or spiritual supports. Although we don't directly provide those services, we are the agency where youth can be inspired and supported through their transitional years so that they will be empowered to develop the competencies to realize their potential as adults.

Mentee Qualifications 
To be an In My Shoes mentee, you must be between the ages of 16-17 and be in legal out-of-home care, such as living in a group home or a foster home placement. You must also agree to a two year commitment with your mentor and meet with them at least nine hours per month. 

The youth Targeted to be matched with mentors in our program are those youth whom are currently in the Arizona Young Adult Program (AYAP) through Child Protective Services and are living in Pima County.

Typically youth in the AYAP program have a case plan of long term foster care and will transition out of the foster care system at age 18 with little to no family support. Having been in foster care themselves, our mentors understand the struggle our youth must face.

Mentor Qualifications 
To be an My Shoes mentor, you must have spent significant time in foster homes or group homes as a teen and be able to be matched with a youth who lives in Pima County. You must be at least 18 years of age and have successfully demonstrated independent living skills for at least 6 months.  You must also be willing to commit at least nine hours per month for two years with your mentee.  You must possess a positive attitude and are willing to utilize your own experience to relate to your mentee.

 

Want to Have Mentor?  
Looking for someone who has been in your shoes and knows what it is like to live in foster care and transition in to the “real world”? Become a member of IMS and start creating lasting memories and meaningful connections! Contact your case worker to send us a mentor request form or you can contact us and we will help you get started!  

Want to Be a Mentor? 
Our mentors are Strong! Resilient! Amazing! adults whom have spent significant time in foster care and are able and willing to mentor a youth in care for two years! Just nine hours per month for a lifetime of memories for both the mentor and mentee! Become a mentor…share your wisdom! Getting started is easy! All you need to do is send us a volunteer interest form or   contact us and we can help you get started!