WHAT IS A CARING ADULT? It is common for a child or youth to have a network of caring adults to provide encouragement, guidance, and support. The caring persons in a child’s life may be a teacher, coach, neighbor, faith leader, or extended family member. Yet, for some children, such a network does not exist and specially trained people, or mentors, become a lifeline to a healthy, happy, future. The search is on for great mentors for Boca Raton’s children , ages 3- 18. WHAT IS A GREAT MENTOR? Quite simply, it is a person who wants to be a friend and helper to a child. The person is willing to be trained for the role, and understands the importance of being dependable and trustworthy in developing a relationship with a child. A great mentor does not make commitments casually and respects the emerging relationship. A mentor will commit to a specific time: one year, one semester, or nine weeks. Once placed, the great mentor maintains regular contact with the program coordinator. WHAT DOES A MENTOR DO? A mentor is a volunteer (can be an older teen) who may choose to work at a particular site doing specific things. For example, a mentor may meet a mentee (child) at school for about an hour – and spend equal time talking and playing basketball or checkers. Some mentors read or discuss school or social problems. Others may tutor or provide career mentoring. Sometimes, groups of mentors meet with groups of children. An example is an employee volunteer program. Sometimes mentors send postcards or make phone calls when out of town. Some mentors meet the mentee only once a month, and maintain weekly contact by e-mail. Mentoring can be tailored to different circumstances, and much depends on the mentor. HOW CAN I LEARN MORE? Mentors are recruited by volunteer centers, schools, neighborhood centers, and by several mentoring programs. Great Mentor Roundups sponsored by Boca Raton’s Promise partners are held in September and October. See Checklist Resources for more information. THE SEARCH FOR GREAT MENTORS Community Leaders are leading the search for volunteers to make a difference in the life of a child. Mayor Steve Abrams led the charge last January by recommending someone he thought would make a “great mentor” for one of Boca Raton’s great kids. Community leaders were asked to follow. Before June, 30 caring adults were trained and 7 were placed during the Summer. During the Summer Shadowing Days community leaders continued to take the lead: • The Marriott Town Center organized 6 great employees to become career mentors for Summer Shadowing Day. • The West Boca Coalition volunteers Became “ Tuesday Mentors” for 20 youth for 6 weeks. • The Rotary Central Club provided 9 professional career mentors. • The Boca Raton Community hospital hosted a career day for 9 youth who mentored with Dr. Robert Eckleson. The Family Guide has created holiday e-cards at http://family.samhsa.gov/ecards/ecards/default.aspx that can be personalized and sent to children, other loved ones, and friends. These e-cards provide a unique and meaningful way for you to express care and affection to anyone during the holiday season.