This page is for current mentors and those who are looking for more information about being a mentor. For the S.T.A.M.P. page for Youth, please click here.
What is Mentoring?
Mentoring is a relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee.
Most of us can remember the many important individuals in our lives who cared about us and helped us to become who we are today. Research indicates that all of us can benefit from being surrounded by multiple mentors. Many young people today have the skills to find mentors on their own. For others, STAMP assists in deliberately matching youth with one-on-one positive role models from the community that give them direction and opportunity.
Who is a Mentor?
The most important reason to become a mentor is because you love children and would like to make a difference in their life. Characteristics of successful mentors:
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Listener
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Communicator
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Shows up on time
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Committed
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Non-Judgmental
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Positive
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Reliable
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Sense of humor
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Patient
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Discreet
What are the steps to becoming a mentor?
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Contact Michelle Lappas at the Youth Services Bureau by telephone @ (203) 977-0830 or by email at mlappas@ci.stamford.ct.us to begin the process.
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Complete a written application.
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Meet with a member of the Youth Services Bureau staff for a personal interview.
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Complete the screening process which includes checks of criminal background, employment history, places of residency, and personal references.
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Complete second interview with one of the agencies providing mentee matches.
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Attend an initial training, and then orientation at specific site.
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Meet your mentee and begin your mentoring experience!
*The Youth Services Bureau and the partner agency make the final decision regarding acceptance into the program.
What is the Commitment?
Mentors are initially asked to make a one year commitment. This includes meeting with your mentee one hour each week at a location predetermined by STAMP. Mentors who have connected with their mentee in a relationship based on trust and confidence will be encouraged to continue mentoring as long as possible.
MENTOR APPLICATION
INFORMATIONAL BROCHURE
Contact:
Michelle Lappas
Program Coordinator
Youth Services Bureau
203-977-0830
mlappas@ci.stamford.ct.us