Young Spirits Mentorship Program

Today our young people are going through all kinds of life experiences. Some of these experiences lead them into unsafe and murky situations. Youth today are as resilient as ever. That’s the good news. However, youth without good role models, can experience problems as they mature. If left to their own resources, these problems may lead to a void in the circle.

Today, youth are faced with many decisions about complex issues. Many of the youth we work with come from broken families. They may have drug and alcohol issues, or issues with school, FAS/E, suicide, death, gangs, poverty, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, abandonment and the list would seem endless.

A Mentor

A mentor will use life experience as a tool to engage and re-engage our at-risk youth in a mentoring capacity. A mentor will facilitate a meaningful relationship by meeting a youth where he or she is at in life. A mentor will engage a mentee in a caring and sharing environment. This will help a young person gain trust in you as a mentor. Mentors will provide leadership, an ear, a voice and a tear.

The roles and responsibilities of a mentor include the following:
• Provide one to one support, provide advocacy, caring and a consistent relationship;
be a positive adult role model; be a good listener and a good leader
• Plan outings with the youth (mentees)
• Submit reports to the community mentor, using weekly outing forms
• Report any disclosures pertaining to youth — silence does not help

Our Vision
Building A Community — One Spirit At A Time
The Métis Family Services Mentorship Program will utilize teachings of the medicine wheel in providing a balanced approach in working with our young people. Our mentors will be part of a team that will build from within the strengths that are within our spirits.

Role of the Community Mentor

• The community mentor will provide support with all aspects your mentoring relationship
• The community mentor will provide training in all areas of interest in the Mentorship Group.

Requirements To Be A Mentor

• Consent to a criminal records check
• Commit 3-5 hours per week for a minimum of one year
• Open to cultural teachings
• Commitment to self enhancement
• Desire to create a difference in a youth’s life
• Attend an information session interview and orientation session
• Sober and drug free for one year

Benefits to volunteer mentors
• Good for the soul
• Strong team atmosphere
• Training
• Reference letter for school or work
• Connect with your community