Become a Mentor
RAMP™ is implemented in local communities by a variety of local community-based organizations or local government agencies. To see if there is a RAMP™ program in your area and apply to be a mentor, contact a local RAMP™ site mentoring coordinator.
Role of the Mentor
- Take the lead in supporting a young person through an ongoing, one-to-one relationship
- Serve as a positive role model and friend
- Build the relationship by planning and participating in activities together
- Strive for mutual respect
- Build self-esteem and motivation
- Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them
Time Commitment
- Make a one-year commitment
- Attend at least 2 weekly group meetings a month (group meetings are about 1 hour in length)
- Attend a two-hour one-on-three mentor/mentee(s) session with matched mentee (1) once per quarter
- Communicate with the mentee(s) weekly
- Attend an initial training session, as well as at least one additional training session during each year of participation in the program
- Attend optional mentor/mentee group events, mentor support groups, and program recognition events
Desirable Qualities
- Willing listener
- Encouraging and supportive
- Patient and flexible
- Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
Benefits for Mentors
- Personal fulfillment through contribution to community and individual
- Satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals
- Deeper understanding of teen and societal problems
- Improved interpersonal skills
- Builds morale at work, develops management skills, and enhances the image of local companies
- Training sessions and group activities
- Participation in a mentor support group
- Mileage and expenses are tax deductible
- Personal ongoing support, supervision to help the match succeed
- Mentee/mentor group activities, complimentary tickets to community events, participant recognition events
Screening and Requirements
- National Sex Offender Registry
- State Background Check
- Three References
- Completion of Training
- Additional Requirements May Vary by RAMP™ Site