Marion County s Mentor Program is for youth in the Juvenile Department. In the program, an eligible, caring adult provides a positive role model for a young person who is on Probation or is a first time offender. Mentor programs have been proven to enhance youths sense of community and their self-worth. Mentors commit to one year. They meet with their youth at least twice a month at school or after school.
Staff provides training and ongoing support.
I receive a lot of self-satisfaction. Youths who are 11 to 14 years of age are referred to the program by agency staff. They are young people who often have low academic scores, are at risk for gang involvement, and in need of additional adult role models. Youth on probation for serious crimes will not be eligible to participate.