Berkshire Homeward Bound seeks male mentors to assist teenage males residing at Berkshire Farm’s Residential Treatment Center with the transition back to their homes in Ulster County. At this time, two mentors are needed in Ulster County, one in Kingston and one in the Ellenville area. If you can help please contact Jay Mooers at mooersjay@yahoo.com, 247-7106.
Some Facts about the Homeward Bound Mentoring Program
The Berkshire Farm Center (BFC) Homeward Bound mentoring program matches young men at Berkshire Farm’s Residential Treatment Center (RTC) with caring adults in a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Mentors offer friendship, guidance, and support to the young men while in residence and as they transition back to their home communities.
Who does the Mentoring Program serve?
Homeward Bound serves young men ages 12 – 18 currently living at the RTC. These young men come from throughout New York State and typically have been troubled by behavioral, legal, and emotional difficulties; family problems; substance abuse; and other issues.
What is the goal of the mentoring program?
The goal of the program is to help these young men successfully transition back to their home communities by providing a stable, supportive relationship with an adult male mentor.
When and where do mentors and mentees meet?
Mentors and mentees commit to meeting for a period of 15 – 18 months. During this time, matches meet in-person at least once a month for one to two hours. Additionally, while the mentee is in placement, matches meet bimonthly by email and webcam. Initially in-person meetings will take place at BFC local community offices with staff support. As the relationship develops, matches will participate in community activities (sporting events, cultural events, etc.).
What do mentors and mentees do together?
Mentors and mentees spend their time together in a variety of ways, including playing sports, visiting museums, going to the movies, and participating in community service activities. These activities serve as the backdrop to building a close, supportive relationship and provide the opportunity to develop the mentee’s life skills. Throughout these interactions mentors spend time listening to their mentees, building trust and offering guidance and support as necessary.
Why is mentoring important?
The young men who reside at Berkshire Farm’s Residential Treatment Center face a number of challenges throughout their placement and as they negotiate the transition home. Many of them are returning to the same environment and difficult circumstances that resulted in their placement at the RTC. A stable, positive role model who can provide fresh perspectives and help them make positive life choices could be the difference between success and failure.
How can I become a mentor?
Are you a caring individual who is committed to building a relationship with a young man? If so, and you meet the following criteria, you may be able to become a Homeward Bound mentor:
Be a male at least 21 years of age
Commit to building a 15 – 18 month relationship with your mentee
Dedicate at least one hour per week to meeting (virtually or in-person) with your mentee
Complete the mentor application
Undergo an interview with a staff member
Pass a criminal background check and other clearances
Attend initial mentor orientation and training
Participate in a minimum of two ongoing training sessions per year.
For more information and to obtain an application to mentor a youth in Ulster County, please contact
Jay Mooers
www.berkshirefarm.org
mooersjay@yahoo.com
(845) 247-7106
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