Youth Development Services Mentor Program
Para Los Niños Youth Development Services (YDS) serves youth currently or formerly in foster care ages 14 through their 21st birthday. The YDS program helps young adults attain the basic life skills, experience and assistance necessary for a successful transition from foster care to self-sufficient independent adults.
The Mentor Program helps to empower youth in the YDS program to make positive life choices that enable them to maximize their potential. Adult volunteers are needed to commit to guiding and being a friend to a young person. There are different types of mentoring opportunities. For different mentoring opportunities, please see Other Mentoring Opportunities That May Fit Your Lifestyle.
What is a Mentor?
A mentor is a special type of volunteer. A mentor in the YDS program offers support to a youth through a mentoring partnership. Becoming a mentor is one of the most rewarding ways to give back and make a difference in the lives of youth. Specifically, a mentor will:
• Serve as a positive role model and friend to a youth.
• Build self-esteem and motivation.
• Take the lead in supporting a young person through one-to-one partnership.
• Build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together.
Who Can Become a Mentor?
An individual who is:
• At least 18 years of age for group mentoring.
• At least 21 years of age for one-on-one mentoring.
• Interested in working with young people.
• Willing to complete the application and screening process.
• Make a one-year commitment and spend a minimum of eight hours per month
face to face with mentee.
How to Become a Mentor
• Complete an application (download below).
• Submit a DMV driving record print out.
• Pass a background check: Child Abuse and Neglect Registry, Sexual Offender
Registry, and Department of Justice (FBI) clearance.
• Participate in a personal interview.
• Provide four personal references.
• Attend the Mentor Orientation.
• Attend initial four-hour mentor training.
Other Mentoring Opportunities That May Fit Your Lifestyle
Click here
Download Application
Click here
Events and Trainings for Mentors
Click here
Contact Us
Denise N. Esquivel
Mentor Supervisor
Youth Development Services
Para Los Niños
4315 Leimert Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90008
Tel: (323) 508-0106 x229
Fast Facts
In 2007, over 583,000 people in Los Angeles County lived in extreme poverty
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87% of children of immigrant families in Los Angeles County are U.S. citizens
