YMCA of Greensboro
YMCA Greensboro Teen Programs Mentor Are you passionate about supporting young people as they grow into leaders? The YMCA of Greensboro is seeking caring and committed adults (age 20+) to serve as Teen Programs Mentors. Mentors will be part of a general mentor pool and may be matched with one or more of the following teen leadership programs: - YMCA Achievers – college and career readiness program for teens - Y Leaders – leadership development and service-based program - Youth and Government (YAG) – civic engagement and mock legislative program - Teen Mental Health Advisory Council (TMHAC) – statewide council focused on reducing stigma and expanding access to teen mental health resources - Future Leaders of the YMCA (FLY Camp) - Summer Service Learning Camp (2-week program) - Achievers Elevate - 6-week Workforce Development Program for Teens ages 15-17. What You’ll Do as a Mentor: - Provide encouragement, guidance, and support to teens as they participate in program activities - Share your experiences and insights to help teens reach their personal, academic, and leadership goals - Build positive, professional relationships with teens in a safe and supportive environment Requirements: - Must be 20 years of age or older - Complete all prerequisite requirements assigned to this project (background check, references, etc.) - Attend a 45-minute online mentor training session prior to being matched with teens. By serving as a mentor, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of young leaders across Guilford County and beyond.
Provide Consistent Adult Support Ensure every teen participating in Achievers, Y Leaders, Youth and Government, Teen Mental Health Advisory Council or other Teen Leadership Programs has access to at least one caring adult mentor for encouragement, guidance, and accountability. Foster Leadership and Life Skills Equip teens with the tools to develop leadership, communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills through mentor relationships and program participation. Expand Access to College, Career, and Civic Opportunities Connect teens to educational pathways, professional networks, and community leadership opportunities that prepare them for success beyond high school. Promote Mental Health and Positive Development Support teen well-being by reducing stigma around mental health, encouraging healthy coping strategies, and creating a safe, supportive environment for growth.
Eric Graves, Association Teen Director eric.graves@ymcagreensboro.org
Teen Leadership Volunteer Safety Statement (Condensed) Our organization is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all youth and has zero tolerance for abuse. All teen leaders and mentors are expected to follow these core safety practices at all times: 1. No One-on-One Interactions - Volunteers must never be alone with a participant. - All interactions must be observable and interruptible - Private or isolated interactions are not permitted unless specifically authorized and supervised This reflects Praesidium’s guidance that isolated, one-on-one situations increase risk. 2. Rule of 3 At all times, there must be at least three individuals present (e.g., one leader and two participants, or two leaders and one participant). - This applies to in-person activities, transportation, and electronic communication - Private, one-on-one communication (including texting or messaging) is not allowed 3. Responsibility to Act All volunteers must immediately report: - Any violations of these expectations - Any concerning, suspicious, or inappropriate behavior Failure to follow these safety expectations may result in removal from the program. Creating a safe environment is everyone’s responsibility, and these practices are essential to protecting both youth and volunteers.