It’s not about homework! This is a program that takes place at the child’s school, during the school year. The In-School Mentor spends one hour per week doing a fun activity or just talking with a child who could use a friend. We encourage employers to give employees the time during the work day to volunteer…studies show that people who volunteer perform better on the job!
FAQs
What is the basic commitment of an In-School Mentor?
In-School Mentors are asked to make a commitment for a minimum of one year, or full school year. Developing a friendship with a child and creating a positive influence takes time. We strongly believe that the success of the friendship between a "Mentor" and a "Mentee" depends more on regular and consistent contact and the enjoyment of the activities together, than on the length of each visit. We request one hour once a week to be spent with your Mentee.
How do I apply to become a In-School Mentor?
Application Process consists of:
- Complete an Inquiry Form. Required before application is submitted.
- Complete Application Form Appendix C2 Site based volunteer application or call (613) 544-1621 and we will mail one to you.
- Provide 4 references ( 1 character, 1 significant other, 1 family, 1 employer) whom you have known for more than 2 years.
- Obtain a Police Clearance form from The Kingston Police Department on-line at www.police.kingston.on.ca, or go to the station in person at 705 Division St.
A fee of $15 for the CPIC is required.
- Mail your completed application form to:
Big Brothers Big Sisters KFL&A
1344 Princess Street
Kingston, ON K7M 3E2
Phone (613 544-1621)
Fax (613 544-5742)
Once we receive your completed application form and your attached references, expect a call from the Caseworker to set up an appointment time for your interview and training.
Is there an age limit for Mentors?
The minimum age for In- School Mentors is 18. There is no maximum age limit, as long as the volunteer is in good general health and is physically active.
Do you need to own a car?
No, but to reach even more children in this program a vehicle or the use of public transit would be an asset to the program.
Who are the Mentees?
They are often children on our current waiting list for a Big Brothers or Big Sisters, typically in grades 2- 8, or have been referred by their school. Each child is unique, responsive, and has a need for a consistent, positive role model. As we are a volunteer service, our program is friendship based and is not designed as a form of intervention for serious individual or family problems.
Is there a cost involved in being a Mentor?
No. The agency provides an In-School Mentoring bin at each school which has a variety of board games, crafts, lego and most schools have sports equipment that can be used during your time together.
What do the kids like to do?
The children in our programs have varied interests and enjoy a wide variety of activities. Depending on the age and interests activities may include sports, crafts, board games or just hanging out talking. Your time together will be spent at the school either in a classroom, library, gym or out in the playground. Since this is a site based program you must stay on school property.
Does the agency stay involved once the match is made?
Yes. We provide ongoing support and monitoring. Our caseworkers are available to deal with any questions or concerns that come up. Regular phone contact with all parties is an expectation of the program as are regularly scheduled meetings to discuss the progress of the match.
For further information
Thanks to our partners: Limestone District School Board and the Algonquin Lakeshore District School Board
Program support for 2009-2010 is being partially funded by, The United Way KLFL&A, Allstate Foundation, Sweet Adelines (Kingston Corus)