There are many youth between the ages of 6 and 18 that are identified as
“at-risk youth” by school counselors or county social workers. Many of these at-risk youth come from unstable home environments. County social workers have recognized these youth as needing an adult mentor that can provide some stability in their lives. Adult volunteers are recruited and trained by the team members from
Safety Net Mentor Program, then matched with at-risk youth.
“Just recently, my mentee, Mariah, asked me if I knew why she liked to come to my house,” said Safety Net Mentor, Nicole Workman. “I said no," and she replied, ‘It's because I like you.’ I know it sounds simple and like nothing you would expect to feel good from, but through all the turmoil and moving and chaos, Mariah has found something she likes and someone she is comfortable around. I feel that is the whole purpose of a Mentor Program. She plays a parental role in the home and when she is with me, we cook together, play and do fun activities. She helps me work sometimes and I hope that she sees that work ethic is a great thing to have.”
For these youth, mentors become the dependable, trusted adult in their lives; someone they can learn from and go to for advice.
A mentor is a friend, a guide—a role model for healthy relationships. Many
mentors provide the only opportunity for these youth to be a child.
To become a volunteer, one must be a stable adult, over 21 years old, and make a minimum one hour per week commitment for one year. Activities can range from a planned activity, to riding bikes or baking cookies in your home.
Safety Net Mentor Program was developed more than 11 years ago as a prevention measure for at-risk youth. The program was adopted and is funded by the State of Utah Division of Child and Family Services.
If you would like more information, please contact Karla Sedillo, 801-224-7842, or visit Safety Net Mentor Program at
www.safetynetmentor.org.
