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Behavioral Health Services
CYS-Project Together
phone (714) 796-0100
fax (714) 796-0132

email: cyspt@ochca.com

Become a Mentor

"Should I Become a Mentor?"
CLICK HERE to see if  mentoring is for you.

Mentoring -- the presence of caring individuals who, along with parents or guardians, provide youth with support, advice, friendship, reinforcement and example that can help youth from all circumstances succeed.

Children and teens today often face tough obstacles, but a mentor can help to make a difference. Studies show that children with mentors learn to make better decisions, develop healthy values and have a greater sense of worth.

Being a mentor is a fun and rewarding experience that can impact a child's future. Mentors are students, parents, business owners, teachers and other responsible adults, just like you. CYS-PT mentors, by being a trusted friend and a stable adult role model, help children in the program develop self-esteem, confidence and social skills. All you need is the desire to help a young person grow to achieve his or her fullest potential.

To become a CYS-Project Together mentor you must complete a thorough screening and training process. Mentor-child matches are made according to mutual interests and geographic location. Once matched, mentors work as part of the therapeutic team and meet regularly with the CYS-PT Volunteer Coordinator and the child’s therapist. Mentors are asked to make a minimum commitment of 2-4 hours a week for 6 months.

Requirements to become a mentor include:

  • Age 21 or older

  • Resident of California for at least one year

  • Completion of an application

  • Reference and background checks, including fingerprinting

  • Interviews with the CYS-PT staff, the child's therapist, and the child and his/her family

  • California Driver's License

  • Ability to provide transportation and show proof of current automobile insurance

Mandatory training includes:

  • Agency/Program Policies

  • Listening/communication skills

  • Self-esteem building

  • Behavior management techniques

  • Emergency preparedness

  • Communication approaches

  • Saying goodbye

CLICK HERE to go the mentor application page

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CYS-PT mentor, please contact:

Nancy Robins, Program Supervisor
phone: 714-796-0100

Adrienne Davalos, Volunteer Coordinator
phone: 714-565-2830

HCA Mission: Excellence, Integrity and Service