Types of Programs

School-based mentoring programs

School-based mentoring programs involve weekly one-on-one meetings between a mentor and his or her mentee, at the mentee’s school. Mentors and mentees engage in a range of academic and/or nonacademic activities, depending on the program’s objectives. Other students see having a mentor come to the school as an “enviable perk,” shedding positive light on the mentee and bolstering his or her social standing.

School-based mentoring programs attract volunteers who, by virtue of their jobs, families, age, or other circumstances, are available to mentor during the school day. Some mentors choose school-based programs because they like the hustle and bustle, the social nature of a school setting. Other mentors like the support and structure school-based mentoring offers.

Many universities and companies create partnerships with schools which provide natural connections, staff incentives, and sanctioned leaves. One example of this type of partnership is the VSAC GEAR UP Mentoring Program, which is based at VSAC (Vermont Student Assistance Corporation) and operates in Winooski Middle School and Colchester Middle School.

Community-based mentoring programs

Community-based mentoring programs involve weekly one-on-one meetings, which take place outside of any specific site. The mentor and their mentee decide when and where they will meet, and what activities and interests they will pursue. Community-based matches usually meet for one to three hours per week. Community-based mentoring offers a young person the chance to develop a relationship with an adult, other than a parent or teacher, who becomes a friend,  a role model, and an advocate for them. Activities are chosen based on the  interests of the pair. Community-based matches can take several forms including tutoring, career exploration, life skills development, entertainment, and cultural or social experiences. This type of mentoring requires a higher level of risk management, screening, support, and supervision. Some of the oldest and largest programs in Chittenden County are community-based programs, such as Community Friends and Junior/Senior Buddies.

Site-based mentoring programs

Site-based mentoring programs involve weekly one-on-one meetings that take place at a specific site. Mentors and mentees meet at the program site, and agency or program staff create and supervise activities.

There are many other types of mentoring programs. Some of the other models already in place are e-mentoring, business based mentoring, group mentoring and faith based mentoring. Mobius encourages anyone interested in creating a mentoring program to request technical assistance at the earliest stages of program development. Whatever type of mentoring program is employed, it is imperative that a program embrace the Elements of Effective Practice found on the National Mentoring Partnership website. Mobius is here to support you in your efforts to help every child who needs or wants a mentor to get one.