Mentoring Program
Our Youth at RiskMillions of young people ages 10-20 live in situations that put them at risk of not living up to their potential. Without immediate intervention by caring adults, they could make choices that not only undermine their futures, but also prevent them from contributing to society.
Family Connections Project
The Family Connections Project (FCP) is a federally funded program administered by Adoptions Unlimited, Inc., which is designed to help youth achieve permanency while maintaining birth family connections. Many youth need a positive influence, role model or just someone to be there for them. These relationships are facilitated by the FCP Mentor Coordinator.
What is mentoring?
Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing a stable connection for youth leaving foster care. Through continued involvement, the adult offers supervision and assistance as the young person faces different situations in his or her life.
Mentoring can help by:
- improving young people's attitudes towards their parents, peers and teachers;
- encouraging students to stay motivated and focused on their education;
- providing a positive way for young people to spend free time; and
- helping young people face daily challenges.
Mentors would need to:
- be a minimum of 25 years old;
- have a background check;
- complete the FCP mentor training;
- be available to mentee a minimum of six hours per month; and
- provide a summary of time together with youth.
Parties interested in becoming a mentor for the Family Connections Project should contact Darryl Harvey at 312-462-7234, Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm, or via e-mail at dh@adoptinfo-il.org.
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