Mentor
The need for one-on-one mentoring is clear, but only 5 percent of the youth in need of a mentor in Springfield are connected with one through a formal program.
SSV’s School-Based Mentoring Program matches students in the Springfield Public Schools with caring adult volunteers who serve as positive role models and trusted friends. Mentors meet with students at school once a week. The expected minimum commitment is one school year.
The goals of the mentoring program are to:
-
promote academic achievement and consistent attendance at school
-
help students make successful transition from one grade level to the next
-
increase the graduation rate of participating students
Why Mentoring?
Research has shown that quality mentoring programs can be effective tools for enhancing the positive development of youth and that mentored youth are more likely to have:
-
fewer absences from school
-
better attitudes toward school
-
fewer incidents of violence
-
less drug and alcohol use
-
more positive attitudes toward their elders and toward helping in general, and
-
improved relationships with their parents
Training is required and is offered at various times throughout the year.
SSV’s School-Based Mentoring Program is a Partner Member of Mass Mentoring Partnership.
