Our Vision….
Transform communities by matching safe, nurturing adult mentors with area youth, so they reach their full potential and become positive contributors to society.
Kinship Mentoring of Columbia County INC
806 Silver Lake Drive
P.O. Box 542
Portage, WI 53901
Why Be a Mentor
Why is mentoring important?
Our community’s future rests on the hopes and dreams of our children and youth. Every child deserves a responsible and concerned adult who will provide guidance and support, help set and accomplish goals, and act as a positive role model.
How Can Kids Benefit From a Mentor?
Mentoring can improve kids’ lives by bolstering their self-esteem and offering opportunities for social and emotional skill development. We match children ages 5—14 with positive adult influences.
What is the Mentoring Process Like?
All adult volunteers are interviewed, undergo criminal background checks, and comprehensive screening before being matched with a child. The Program Coordinator then matches the child with mentors based on age, gender, location, interests, and mentor’s previous experience working with youth.
There is continued support by the Program Coordinator during the mentorship and the Coordinator is also responsible for maintaining a relationship with the mentee’s parent and/or guardian. We provide support, structure, and supervision needed to make sure everyone experiences a safe and positive relationship throughout their experience.
We believe every child deserves to have supporting and caring adults!
-
Have you had the honor of being a child’s friend?
-
Have you seen the world through the trusting eyes of a child?
-
Have you listened to a child’s dreams?
-
Have you ever engaged in thoughtful conversation with a child?
We ask for the following:
-
A one-year commitment to the relationship. This is important for establishing and building a safe and stable relationship.
-
It is the responsibility of the Mentor to maintain regular contact, plan activities, and get approval from the mentee's parent/guardian.
-
The mentor receives no payment or special credit for their time and efforts. Keep expenses to a minimum. The mentor’s gift of time is the most valuable gift they can give.
-
Kinship will provide initial and ongoing training. The Program Coordinator is there throughout the match to support the mentorship in every step.
