“Everybody can be great . . . because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a
college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” - Martin Luther King, Jr. Contracted Agreement between Missouri Alliance and Persona, LLC
Persona LLC will offer mentoring services to adolescents between the ages of 7-17 years of age. The mentoring program allows youth to receive one on one time with a trained, professional, and open hearted mentor. Youth will be able to build a relationship with an adult that will positively impact their lives. Persona is committed to ensuring that youth get a mentor that is able to provide support, consistency, and lasting relationships for program participants. We at Persona are committed providing our youth with quality mentors. This commitment is not a job but the true work of life, which is enhancing the lives of youth and helping them become prominent members of society. Great mentors come in all shapes, sizes and ages. They come from the city, the county, the country. They come from homes, apartments, condos, lofts, mobile homes and estate mansions. They arrive in every color, faith and cultural/political persuasion. But what they have in common is the ability to listen with an open heart, to have patience, understanding and a real passion for learning. Great mentors are, after all, great human beings.
Mentor Role
Take the lead in supporting youth through a mentoring relationship Serve as a positive role model and friend Be actively involved with the youth’s interests and life experiences Involve youth in your interests and life experiences Build a relationship by planning and participating in activities together Build self-esteem Help set goals and work toward achieving them
Time Commitment
Make a one-year commitment Get together twice (2) per month to participate in social/recreational activities with the individual with whom you are matched (activities may be completed during the day, evening, or on weekends) Communicate weekly via telephone or email Attend two (2) Just Friends group events throughout your one-year commitment
Mentor Requirements
3 Years Experience with parents and or children High school diploma Child Abuse and Neglect Screening Must Show proof of valid driver’s license and current automobile insurance Reside in the St. Louis Metropolitan Area Have an interest in making a difference in another individual’s life Be willing to adhere to all program requirements Be willing to complete the application and screening process Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments Be willing to communicate regularly with program staff, submit activity information and hours, and take constructive feedback regarding mentoring activities Not use illicit drugs, controlled substances, or alcohol while participating in program activities Have access to an automobile (whether you can drive or have a dependable family member transport you) and auto insurance
Desirable Qualities
Open minded Compassionate Patient Motivated
Benefits
Develop a new relationship with youth Personal fulfillment through contribution to your community and an individual Satisfaction in helping someone mature and progress in life Develop leadership skills Gain information about the field of social services as a career option Training session, group activities, and educational opportunities
Meeting other mentors Personal ongoing support to help the relationship succeed Access to community events at no cost or low cost to individuals Potential for state and local awards Additional activity for college/work resume Fulfill community services hours for school or clubs