Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a mentor? First of all, think about where you would like to mentor (school, site-based, faith-based organization) when you are available to mentor, and whether you have any age preference. Next, we suggest you visit our Become a Mentor page where you can use a zip-code search to find a mentoring program in your area. If you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact VMP at (804) 828-1536. Top

What is the time commitment? Many programs do require that mentors commit to the program for one year. A long-term commitment provides the most benefits to the young person. However, most mentoring programs will work with the mentor to find the most convenient time for the mentor-mentee meeting. Schedule and time commitment also depends on the type of program and calendar year. For example, school-based programs meet at the school, during the school day, while site- or community-based programs may meet at a community center, after school, or on the weekends.Top

What skills are required? Mentoring is simple! The most effective mentors are those who are patient, committed, and willing to listen to their mentee. Mentors do not need to be perfect, rich, or a CEO. Mentors simply need to be willing to help a young person by being a consistent, caring adult, help them problem solve and practice good communication, and introduce them to new experiences and ideas. However, VMP provides orientation and support sessions for mentors to help them cultivate their natural abilities as mentors. Top

How long do relationships last? Some mentoring relationships last for many years. Others do not. In a formal mentoring relationship, it is always best to follow the guidelines of the mentoring program, promising only to mentor a young person for the time period determined by the program. If you would like your mentoring relationship to continue after the program has officially ended, it is best to discuss the transition from a formal to informal relationship with the mentoring program operator, the mentee, and the mentee’s parent or guardian. Top

Are schools safe? Of the 150,000 young people in Virginia who need a mentor, many face challenging circumstances such as poverty, inadequate health care, parental incarceration, or an unstable home life. Others simply lack access to experiences and resources outside their neighborhoods, or need more encouragement and attention in school. Even those students who do not face challenging circumstances can benefit from a caring adult mentor – someone who says, "I believe in you." Remember that even failing schools are staffed by dedicated and hard-working educators who are trying to find the best solutions to meet the needs of their students. They welcome your support. Mentors are encouraged to think about the stereotypes they may carry into a mentoring relationship, and try to imagine what perceptions are held by the mentee. Top

Does mentoring cost money? Most mentoring programs require very little to no monetary commitment from a mentor. Usually gift giving is discouraged, unless it has been approved by the program coordinator or the gift can be shared with all mentees in the program (e.g., a snack or goodie bag at an end of year celebration). Mentors should not feel pressure to take mentees on trips, on expensive outings, or buy birthday gifts. Ask your mentoring program operator for creative, low-cost, and fun activities to do with your mentee. Top

How do I find a mentor? To find a mentoring program for your child, or a young person in need, we suggest you visit our Find a Mentor page, where you can use a zip-code search to find mentoring programs in your area. This database is also used to help people who want to become a mentor. As always, if you have further questions, do not hesitate to contact VMP. Top

Formal vs. informal? Formal mentoring relationships bring a mentor and mentee together in the context of a mentoring program, specially designed to help facilitate the growth of a bond between a caring adult and a young person. Formal mentoring programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters of America emerged in the early 20th century.

Informal or natural mentoring occurs between children and adults in their own communities whereby an adult reaches out to guide, encourage, and support a young person. Natural mentors include kin, neighbors, youth leaders, teachers, coaches, and even older siblings. Mentoring can be traced to Greek mythology, wherein Odysseus’ son Telemachus is guided and protected by his friend, Mentor, while Odysseus is away at war. Top

How do I start a program? Virginia Mentoring Partnership provides technical assistance to those interested in starting or running a mentoring program. This includes consultation, resources, and training. Top

Does VMP provide funding? VMP does not provide funding to mentoring programs. However, we do provide resources on how to find funding for your program. If a program has received training and services from VMP and is following the Elements of Effective Practice, VMP may consider writing a letter of support for that program. Top

How do I make a donation? VMP accepts donations in a variety of forms. For more information on giving, please visit our Donate Now page. Top

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I become a mentor?

Can I handle the time commitment mentoring requires?

Does mentoring require specific skills?

How long do mentoring relationships last?

I'd like to become a mentor in the schools. Are they safe?

Are volunteer mentors expected to spend money on a mentee?

How do I find a mentor for a young person?

What is the difference between formal and informal mentoring relationships?

How do I start a mentoring program?

Does VMP provide funding to mentoring programs?

How can I contribute to VMP?

Questions?