Goodwill seeks mentors to assist at-risk youth

Tuesday, 09 February 2010 05:20

Goodwill Industries needs volunteers for a new mentoring program designed to help youth overcome disadvantages and avoid delinquency.

The local effort is part of the Goodwill GoodGuides mentoring program that helps young people finish school and transition into productive careers through the guidance of trusted adults.

The program targets youth from ages 12 to 17 who are at-risk for dropping out of school, are facing legal troubles, or are at risk for delinquency due to abuse, disability, gang membership, or drug or alcohol dependence.

The local Goodwill’s goal is to have 60 mentors and 100 young people in the program. Mentors will be asked to commit four hours a month for at least a year, after receiving six hours of training.

Anyone age 16 and older can apply to be a mentor. There will be screening and a background check on mentor applicants.

The program will include individual, peer and group mentoring. If you are interested in being a mentor, call 203-581-5316.