Portland - Our Volunteers

As a mentor, you are making a significant investment of your time and energy. You are the key to the Minds Matter model of success. You are enhancing the mentees' line of sight and awareness of life's options. You have significant influence and leverage in the mentees' future. Before continuing with the application process to volunteer with Minds Matter, you must satisfy the following requirements:
 

• Be a college graduate
   
  
• Attend the Saturday sessions (12:20 pm to 2:30PM), except for school holidays and SAT/PSAT exam days, September through May of each school year. A 75% minimum attendance is expected. You will work with one other mentor (co-mentor) with one student. You will provide your student with support, guidance, and friendship.
   
  
• Be a good listener.
   
  
• Pass a background check.
   
  
• Have fun!
   
  

 
A Typical Week in the Life of a Mentor
Sunday -Friday: Begin thinking about the Saturday ahead.

		Be proactive as far as thinking of new ideas and suggestions for essay topics, group activities, etc.
		Read the assigned "What's Going On In The World?" article from the New York Times. Be prepared to discuss the content, vocabulary, diction at the next Saturday session.
		Help mentees select and apply to summer college and prep school programs as sophomores and juniors, colleges and university as seniors, and financial aid packages for all.
		During the week, check with your co-mentor and with your mentee. If your mentee needs assistance completing the assignments, offer constructive suggestions. Ensure that the mentee has read the assigned article in the New York Times and is prepared to discuss it.
		Report any significant problems to the Director of Mentors.
		If you are unable to attend the upcoming Saturday session, notify the Director of Mentors, your mentee and your co-mentor

 
Saturday: Arrive on time at Self Enhancement Inc. (SEI).

		Review session agenda with your mentee. Report any significant problems to the Director of Mentors.
		Note ways to improve the session and offer your suggestions to your mentee, the Director of Mentees and the Director of Minds Matter.

 
For more information on becoming a mentor, please contact Turid Owren, Director of Mentors, turid@tonkon.com.
 
To download a Mentor Application, please click here.