Mentoring Programs

What is Mentoring?

In their article on mentoring, Mary Agnes Hamilton and Stephen F. Hamilton quote Walker as stating the following: “Mentoring has become a visible and popular strategy for supporting the development of disadvantaged youth.”

According to the Hamiltons, “Research has born out the common-sense expectation that introducing a caring adult into the life of a young person in need can have significant benefits.” (M. and S. Hamilton, ACT for Youth Upstate Center for Youth: Research &Facts Findings: Mentoring)

One of the goals of Partners for New Generations is to help the youth within the community to be exposed to experiences through mentoring that can lead them to become productive and caring human beings.

What is a PNG Mentor?

A mentor is a role model, supporter and listener. His or her role is to support the development of self-esteem and model good communication skills, positive attitudes and behavior and to help in setting goals. A mentor is not a parent or guardian, disciplinarian or peer. Mentors are active listeners and are understanding and respectful.

A mentor is expected to be genuine. Just be yourself. You don’t have to be perfect. Just act naturally and be willing to listen in a non-judgmental manner. PNG expects mentors to be available twice a month at a time that is convenient for both mentor and mentee.

Is there mentor training?

PNG mentor training is ongoing during the year and on an as-needed basis. You will be trained by the PNG mentor coordinators from the Mountain View-Los Altos Union High School District’s three high schools. Some of the topics that are covered during the training session include: qualities of a good mentor, do’s and don’ts, first meetings, mentor/mentee activities and other helpful advice.

Where are mentors needed?

Partners for New Generations (PNG) is currently recruiting mentor volunteers for the three high schools in the Mountain-View/Los Altos Union High School District.

If interested in learning more about mentoring, please click on the “Contact Us” button above right and complete the form.  Someone will get back to you within a day or two.

After making the initial contact, you will be asked to meet with the chairman of the committee in which your interests lie; then you will be asked to attend training.