The power of Parent Mentors

Do you have a friend who's a great listener? Someone who is rooting for you every step of the way?

The confidence that's gained through those relationships is powerful.

And that's what our Parent Mentors work to build.

Our parent mentors are community volunteers who meet weekly with their mentees to form friendships and act as role models to parents who may be isolated or face certain challenges. 

"Our mentees come from a wide range of situations. Some are experiencing a temporary crisis and are in need a friend. Others are expecting a baby and don't have any one in their lives to ask for parenting advice, " said Hailey MacDonald, program manager. "We work to match our mentors and mentees to create a truly beneficial experience- for everyone."

It's a commitment, as all good relationships are. Parent mentors are asked to provide a friendly, supportive, consistent presence in the life of a parent for one year through weekly visits, telephone contacts, and by introducing them to activities, resources, and/or networks that will reduce their isolation and provide additional opportunities.

Many of our mentors bring their own life skills to their role while also introducing mentees to positive communication, realistic, age-appropriate expectations of their children, and positive disciplinary techniques. 

The compassionate, caring, and consistent interactions help to build positive outcomes for everyone–mentors, mentees, and children, alike.