Our Mentorship Program connects an adult from the community to an interested youth at Covenant House Vancouver, to help them achieve their goals. The Program supports young people in the learning of life skills, applying for jobs, and advancing their education.
Mentorship looks different for every individual, as youth are matched with a mentor based on what the youth requests. This could be based on a hobby or interest, an interest in a career path, or youth maybe looking for a supportive adult role model.
Mentors provide guidance and support, knowledge and experiences, and they inspire and empower.
Mentoring is a great way to:
- Give back to your community
- Empower your mentee to make decisions for themselves and their futures
- Support mentees to engage in new experiences
- Be a role model and cheerleader
- Share your unique worldview
- Develop a lasting, sustainable, healthy, and supportive relationship
Over 100 mentors recruited, and youth matched since the Program’s inception in 2015.
Outcomes
Many of the mentors have expressed that their relationships with mentees have changed their lives, opened their eyes, and inspired them.
“What motivates me is the realization of my life purpose: to serve, empower, and enhance the lives of children and youth everywhere.”
“Connection and genuine care for the mentee.”
“I’ve learned a lot about trauma and the different forms it comes in, and how you can’t always physically see the burdens that someone carries, but it doesn’t mean they aren’t carrying them.”
Many of the youth have also expressed how their mentors have impacted their lives and supported them in making significant life decisions:
“Being able to talk about my feelings about my process in developing my social skills with them without the fear of being judged.”
“My mentor has motivated me to stay fit and workout, even if it’s just a walk.”
“Being more open and positive in a tough situation.”
“Building confidence in me more than before.”
Mentor-mentee relationships have resulted in:
- young people obtaining their dream jobs;
- youth pursuing life goals and aspirations;
- mentors introducing a young person to post-secondary education; and
- a better understanding of the city they live in, which is especially valuable when you are a refugee.
Applying
There is a very stringent screening process and training for those who wish to be a mentor, that includes:
- A criminal record check
- Mentor interview
- Online and in-person training components
- Ongoing mentor training
- Attendance at mentorship events
If you have any questions, or would like to apply, contact Lisa Mendes, Mentorship Coordinator: mentorship@covenanthousebc.org
“The impact that mentoring has had on youth every year, since the program started, always amazes me. The program is designed to be youth led. I provide youth with an overview of the program and make suggestions, but ultimately the young person decides where and how they would like the support. I feel that this is one of the reasons for the program’s success.” Lisa Mendes, Mentorship Coordinator at CHV