The Precious Mentor program has been recognized by MENTOR Colorado as a champion partner. This recognition is given to mentoring programs that commit to providing quality programing, participate in the National Quality Mentoring System and receive technical assistance from MENTOR CO.
Precious Mentor
Eligibility Requirements
Mentee Eligibility
- Youth aged 12-24
- Living in one of the eight counties A Precious Child serves (counties)
- Facing life challenges including:
- Financial disadvantage
- Mental health challenges
- Living in non-traditional households
- Social-emotional needs
If you are interested in working with a mentor, please fill out the Mentee Application
Mentor Eligibility
- Adults, 25+
- Living in one of the eight counties A Precious Child serves (counties)
- Can pass a background, fingerprint and reference checks
- Can commit to one year with mentee
- Have a valid driver’s license and insurance
- Applicants with any of the following will not be eligible for the program:
- A felony on their record
- A violent crime or crime against a child on their record
- If you have a DUI on your record, 10 years must have passed since completing your probation
- If you have a history of drug/alcohol abuse, you must have at least 10 years of sobriety and/or abstinence
Steps to Becoming a Mentor
Step 1: Sign up for 1 hour Mentor Orientation and review position description – sign up for orientation here: https://apreciouschild.volunteerhub.com/vv2/?eventGroupId=9aadc45b7b4641dcb3ff523f16125e0b
Step 2: Complete online application
Step 3: Initial half-hour interview with program staff
Step 4: Complete background and fingerprint checks – paid for by mentor applicant
Step 5: Attend 3 hour training at A Precious Child – this is the last step before getting matched with a mentee
Benefits of Our Community Based Mentor Program
- Mentee Benefits
- Youth with a mentor experience increased educational success, improved emotional health and more postsecondary opportunities. By giving just 8 hours per month, you can help transform the life of a youth in your community.
- “His mentor is helping him to socialize. Thank you for all your help!”
- Mentor Benefits
- Mentors report increased personal growth, a greater opportunity to give back and a better sense of community.
- “I feel tremendous gratitude for when she shows in her words and actions that I’ve earned her trust and companionship. Those moments are the most fulfilling aspects of mentoring.”
FAQs for Mentors
How long does it take to get matched?
Our Precious Mentor program works to make matches that are intentional, meaning we are looking for similar interests, geographic location and complementary personalities. We are hoping to match within three months of you being fully trained.
How many times do I meet with my mentee?
You will spend 8 hours per month with your mentee. We suggest weekly for 2 hours. Your match will meet for one year, with the opportunity to continue after one year.
Will I be supported?
For the first three months you are matched, you will have bi-weekly check-ins with a Precious Mentor staff. These are for you to talk about your match, ask questions and get advice on how to better work with your mentee. After three months, check-ins will be monthly and/or as needed.
What activities do I do with my mentee?
You and your mentee can do countless activities! We suggest finding free events in your community as well as utilizing free resources in Colorado! You can go to sporting events, try a new restaurant, go to the library, and more! Precious Mentor staff will provide a New Activity Guide at the match meeting with ideas and suggestions for activities.
Are there any trainings for mentors?
As a mentor, you will participate in an initial three-hour training. Precious Mentor staff will be offering additional trainings throughout the year, some will be required and some will be optional. If there is something you want more guidance on, please let staff know.