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Nicole's Soar With A Child Always (S.W.A.C.A.)

Leadership I Education I Proper Etiquette I Mentors I Health & Nutrition

W h y    M e n t o r i n g ?
Mentoring is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your community!

1. Research tells us that mentoring can have a positive impact on the lives of young people, including significant reductions in school absence; better school attitudes and behavior; less drug and alcohol use (especially among minority youth)  and less likelihood of committing crimes.
2.  A 2006 study on high school dropouts  found that one of the most important improvements high schools can make to decrease drop-out rates is to provide students with adult advocates who offer support and coordinate their needs.
3. Yes, mentoring relationships positively change the lives of the youth involved

Most people are surprised when we tell them that we have a waiting list of students ready to match.  In fact, when we visit public and charter schools, it's not uncommon for a whole class to submit applications for mentors. 

There's a misconception that many students in NC schools don't want to go to college... But when we ask them to raise their hands, in a class of 30, most hands go up.  Hands go down when we ask students how many know what it takes to get into college.  Enter Mentor X.  Mentor X is you, wondering if - now - is the time to change a life. 

There is no question that we need you. 
There is no question that students are waiting. 

And most of you tell us you've been thinking about it for ages.

If you're reading this, consider that we've gotten you half way to changing a life. 

The rest is up to you.

Does this sound like you?

• At least 21 years old and have completed high school or the equivalent;
• Employed, retired or engaging in academic studies at an accredited institution;
• Ready to submit an application and two letters of reference;
• Willing to participate in a short interview with staff;
• Can pass a criminal background check;
• Willing to make a one-year commitment to mentoring a protégé;
• Have the desire to make a difference in the life of a student

20+ Ways to be a Great Mentor

1. Commit to at least one year with your mentee
2. Demonstrate to your mentee that you are consistent, dependable, and trustworthy
3. Consistently act in ways that are ethical to earn the trust of your mentee
4. Know the mission of your mentoring provider organization
5. Always follow the guidelines of your mentoring provider organization
6. Value the diverse economic, cultural, and religious traits of your mentee
7. Maintain regular contact with your S.W.A.C.A. to ensure effective mentoring practices
8. Have fun with your mentee as you learn together – mentoring should not be all work and no play
9. Do not criticize the staff or faculty of S.W.A.C.A. in front of your mentee
10. Do less talking and more listening so your mentee can share his/her thoughts
11. Do not make inappropriate remarks about your mentee’s family
12. Be a positive role model in both word and deed
13. Never engage in inappropriate physical contact with your mentee
14. Maintain a cheerful and positive attitude with your mentee
15. Support community efforts to encourage volunteerism
16. Never violate the law or organizational codes of conduct
17. Keep conversations confidential between you and your mentee
18. Be an advisor, not a preacher
19. Be a sympathetic listener, not a psychologist
20. Be a friend, not a surrogate parent
21. Talk to a teacher, counselor, or S.W.A.C.A. if your mentee has problems you cannot help with
22. Refrain from profanity or other inappropriate speech
23. Know that “thank you” may come in the form of a hug or a smile instead of words