If you are ready to make a difference in the life of a child with an incarcerated parent, consider being a mentor.
The Perfect Match
Each mentor enrolled in the program will be assigned to a mentee whose needs are compatible with the mentor’s abilities. Eligible youth are 4 to 18 years of age and voluntarily agree to enter into the mentoring relationship. To ensure compatibility, we take into account multiple factors to help ensure that the match is a successful one. Some of these factors include:
- Interests and hobbies
- Personalities and communication styles
- Past mentoring experiences
- Preferences
During the initial match meeting, the following criteria will be discussed:
The Five-Fold Purpose
- Introduction which includes rationale
- Roles
- Rules
- Limitations
- Friendship Pact
Introduction of Mentor to Mentee
- Common interests and experiences
- Reasons why this could be a good match
Roles
- Youth Expectations: Friendship, participation and fun
- Mentor Expectations: Friendship, guidance specifically to the youth
- Caregiver Expectations: Non-critical support and communication of concerns
Rules
- Pick up/drop off at home unless otherwise agreed
- Out of the ordinary activities require informing parent in advance
- Meet at least 4 hours each month
- Confidentiality and exceptions
Limitations
- Schedule limitations: days/times
- Relevant health issues: (e.g., allergies)
Friendship Pact
- An agreement to be completed at the initial match meeting
- Follow-up discussion
- Parent Handbook
Those interested in becoming a mentor should click here for an application.
Mentor Requirements
Being an Amachi Pittsburgh mentor consists of providing guidance and caring support to children of incarcerated parents. Eligible mentors may be male or female, married or single, with or without children. They must, however, be at least 18 years of age. Potential mentors will be carefully screened and trained. Mentors will also receive ongoing training and supervision throughout the duration of their match.
The following must be completed in order to become an Amachi mentor:
- Mentor Application Form: Both mentor and mentee are required to complete a written application. Information such as interests, pastimes, etc., are collected and used to assist us in the matching process. (Click here for an application)
- Act 33/34 Clearances: These background checks completed by the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare and Pennsylvania State Police assist agencies in verifying that the potential mentor does not have a history of child abuse or criminal behavior. There is a $10.00 fee for each clearance, which is paid for by Amachi Pittsburgh.
Although clearance applications are mailed from the Amachi Pittsburgh office, the results will be mailed directly to the applicant. Once the applicant receives an original certificate, it must be submitted to Amachi Pittsburgh as we are required by law to keep original copies on file. - Interview: After an application is received, mentors are then scheduled for an interview. These interviews are conducted by our Outreach Coordinator at the mentor’s home to further assess the mentor’s personality and reasons for mentoring.
- Mentor Training: Mentor orientation/training helps to explain Amachi Pittsburgh’s policies and procedures and prepares mentors on what to expect in their developing relationships. The training typically lasts two to three hours, and can be conducted on-site by an Amachi staff member for large groups of prospective mentors. The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern PA offers “Mentoring 101” on the first Saturday of every month from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. For additional information, the Mentoring Partnership can be contacted at 412.281.2535.