Every child deserves to have a positive role model who he or she can trust. The Youth Assistance Program matches a caring adult with a child who needs a mentor. The mentor and child do activities together, usually one-on-one in the community. Children matched with a mentor do better in school, have higher self-esteem and make better choices.
As a mentor, you will be asked to make a one-year commitment to spending at least one hour, one time per week with the youth while you serve as a positive role model. You will not be expected to spend large sums of money. What is valuable is that you share time together and have fun as you introduce your child to new experiences.
To get started, you’ll need to complete the mentor application form. You will need to agree to a police background and driving check, followed by a personal interview. Prior to being matched, you will attend an orientation session.
It takes a special kind of person to take on this commitment. Our successful mentors possess the following attributes:
- Commitment
- Adaptability
- A positive attitude
Apply to be a Mentor
Does mentoring sound right for you? Click the link below to fill out the online application form.
If you have any questions about becoming a mentor, please email Amy Prater and amy.prater@hamiltoncounty.in.gov
Edvin Cortez, former WYAP mentee and current WYAP board member, opens up about his struggles with anger as a youth and how his mentor, Chad, and WYAP, put him onto a different, more positive path.