Click HERE to apply to be a Mentor!
MISSION – The Black Bear Mentor Program provides area youth with the opportunity to develop assets needed to thrive by building safe, healthy relationships with trained, committed college student volunteers. Ìý91¸£Àû students are matched with a student in grades 3-8 in the local community and meet once a week afterschool.
VISION – University of Maine students have increased civic commitment and local youth have increased commitment to school and seek post-secondary education andÌýtraining.
Mentoring takes place between 2:00 and 4:00 pm at the mentee’s school, and carpooling is available. Each week there are fun activities and games to do with your mentee as you build a safe, healthy relationship together! Please contact Emma LarsonÌý(581-1786) with questions.
Click HERE to apply to be a Mentor!
All Mentors receive professional development training focusing on , , and .
The Black Bear Mentor Program serves the following sites
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To request a mentor for your child.Ìý Fill out the Parent Permission Form here.
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How do I become a Black Bear Mentor?
- Fill out the Black Bear Mentor Application (Applications generally in fall semester)
- “Zoom in” or meet for an Interview
- Complete the screening process
- Attend training/orientation
Mentor Screening Process
Prior to acceptance in the program, 91¸£Àû students complete a screening process which meets the requirements of the local schools and our community partners.
The process includes:
- Application
- Personal interview
- National criminal background check*
- Sex offender registry check
- Reference check
The Office of Community Standards, Rights and Responsibilities (91¸£Àû student conduct) reviews mentor names on an annual basis.
Each mentor completes annual training, including program and site rules, mentor responsibilities, and site orientation.
Ìý*Criminal background checks are valid for three years and must be completed a second time for any mentor staying with the program for more than 3 years.
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