Mentoring a young person is an extraordinary adventure. At its most basic level, mentoring helps because it guarantees a young person that there is someone who cares about them. A child is not alone in dealing with day-to-day worries.
Think back. Did you know how to study for a test or make plans for college? Do you remember wanting your first car or looking for a part-time job? Simple things that seem easy or straightforward to you now may appear to be a complete mystery to a young person. Mentors provide their students with an experienced friend who is there to help in the life situations they face.
Communities In Schools of Jacksonville’s mentoring programs are school-based, meaning that the student you are matched with and the relationship that is developed happens at the school attended by your student. Is being a mentor hard? Not necessarily. Being an effective mentor is challenging, but it is also one of the most rewarding things you will ever do.
If you think you would like to take the next step in becoming a mentor, please download the Mentor Application. Once completed, email it to Communities In Schools of Jacksonville at mconger@cisjax.org fax it to 904-355-9009 or mail it to the CIS office. Once we receive your application, our volunteer coordinator will contact you to coordinate the next step.
Communities In Schools of Jacksonville’s Student Enrichment Program is often in need of volunteers. Our SEP Student Advocates are responsible for the production of multiple events within Duval County’s schools. They are also often in need of professionals within the Jacksonville community that are willing to come speak to students regarding career and college goals and professionalism in the workplace. If you are interested in volunteering your time to help with or speak at an event, please email Amy Schipper at aschipper@cisjax.org or call the CIS office at 904-354-5918.
FAQ’s:
Q: What is the process to become a mentor?
A: There are four steps to become a mentor with Communities In Schools of Jacksonville:
1. Complete the mentor application and return it to our Volunteer Coordinator.
2. Duval County Public Schools requires a thorough background screening which is scheduled by CIS at the DCPS administration building.
3. Once you are cleared by the background check, complete a two-hour mentor training session which includes an interest questionnaire helping CIS match you with a student.
4. Match and introduction to your student. Once an introduction is made, you both decide on a day and time that best fits your schedules.
Q: Do I get to choose my student?
A: While you do not get to choose your student, you are matched according to similar interests, likes and dislikes. You will be given a questionnaire that will help us better understand your interests and more effectively match you with a student.
Q: What is the time commitment?
A: We ask mentors to commit to meet with their student for one hour, once a week, for one school year. At the end of the school year, mentors can choose to continue with the program or look for other outreach opportunities.
Thank you for considering giving your time and talent to someone else. It will change their lives and yours.
Click to download an application:
