If you are new to mentoring, it’s natural to have questions.

What your experience will be like and whether or not mentoring is the right volunteer opportunity for you.
Below are a few answers to questions you might have.

But if you have a question that is not addressed or need more information, please email mentoring@iyi.org
or give us a call at 1-800-396-7060. We are here to help!

Does Mentoring Take a Lot of Time?

Many Indiana’s programs require that volunteers commit to the program for one year, commonly for about an hour per week. A long-term commitment provides the most benefit to the child. However, most mentoring programs will work with the volunteer to find the most convenient time for the mentor-mentee meetings. Schedule and time commitment also depends on the type of the program. For example, school based programs meet at the school, during the school day, while community-based programs may meet at a community center, after school or on the weekends.

Do I Need Any Special Skills to be a Mentor?

The most effective mentors are those who are patient, committed and willing to listen to their mentee.
Mentoring volunteers do not need to be perfect, rich, or a superstar. Mentors simply need to be willing to help a young person by being a consistent, caring adult.

Is Mentoring a Lifetime Commitment?

Some mentoring relationships last for many years, others do not. In formal mentoring relationships, it is always best to follow the guidelines of the mentoring programs as they often have established beginning and ending dates.
For example, a school-based mentor will commit to one school year (September thru May). If you would like to continue your mentoring relationship beyond the established time, you should speak with the program staff member.

Will Mentoring Cost Me Money?

Most mentoring programs require very little or no monetary commitment from a mentor. Usually gift giving is discouraged, unless it has been approved by the program coordinator. Volunteers should not feel pressured to take mentees on trips, on expensive outings, or to buy gifts. Ask your mentoring program coordinator for creative, low-cost, and fun activities to do with your mentee.

Does Mentoring Make a Difference?

All children have the potential to succeed in life and contribute to society. However, not all children get the support they need to thrive. Mentoring benefits youth in many ways such as:

• Improving self-esteem
• Keeping young people in school
• Helping to improve academic success
• Leading young people to resources they might not find on their own
• Providing support for new behaviors, attitudes and ambitions
• Increasing young people’s ability to seek and keep jobs

Numerous studies have shown that mentoring makes a difference in the lives of youth.

Just take a look at the research.