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Seton Youth Shelters is proud to incorporate
the Mentoring Children of Prisoners Program with our crisis shelters
and youth
and family
services. The Mentoring Children of Prisoners Program offers
the opportunity for children with an incarcerated parent to be
matched with a qualified adult mentor. Mentors commit to seeing
the child on a weekly basis for a minimum of a year, to provide
recreational, educational, or cultural activities, as well as
providing a listening ear. The youth and families that are currently
being served through this new and exciting program are reporting
very positive responses.
“
I like the interaction…she’s excited to see me when
I come to get her, and she’s really excited to get out
and about…I like getting to know each other and hearing
about her day, and I enjoy the time out.”
- Seton Youth Shelter’s Mentor
“
One of the things that used to break my heart is that there was
nobody there just for him…he had his brother, but everyone
needs to feel special, and to me his mentor makes him feel special.”
- Parent of a Male Mentee, Age 15
“I like having a mentor because they around when your parent is not available,
and they take you places that you’ve always wanted to go.”
- Female Mentee, Age 12
In order to continue to serve this population, we are currently seeking qualified
adult mentors to match with children who have an incarcerated parent. Without
intervention, a child who has a parent in prison is seven times more likely to
become involved in the criminal justice system. One-on-one mentoring programs
have proven success rates in turning those odds around, and we are excited about
making a difference in many young lives. This program is available to families
at no charge. Click here
to download the Mentor Application.
Children ages 4-18 are eligible for this program. Our volunteer mentors offer
a dependable, ongoing relationship for children. By committing to serve just
one hour a week, a
mentor can make a difference in a child’s life. Click
here to download the Mentee Application.
HOW YOU CAN HELP:
Could you arrange a time for someone from our program to speak to your group?
Get our recruitment material included in your organization's newsletters, bulletin
boards, or e-mail messages? Make announcements at group gatherings? Help us open
those doors so we can spread the word to potential mentors!
The more information that we are able to get out to the public, the greater our
capacity will extend in helping those who need our services! Every child who
is matched also is then assessed for additional services which include shelter,
counseling, educational assistance, and protective measures.
Please feel free to contact Kim Foreman, Mentoring Match Support Specialist,
at
(757)
306-1840
with
any
questions.
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