If we each help one child, we can change the world.

When YOU volunteer as a mentor in BEST Kids™ Mentoring Program, you re-direct the path of a young foster care person’s life.

But being a BEST Kids™ mentor will change you, too. You will be well trained and supported by many professionals. You will be able to share ideas with other mentors who are mentoring similar aged youth. Your mentee will be made part of a peer group whose activities will help support your relationship with your youth. You will feel good about yourself, you’ll learn new things, and you’ll have fun.

Here’s what you do.

Spend ten hours a month in some form of weekly contact with your fourth grade mentee. While in-person contact is preferred, weekly contact can consist of a phone call or postcard. Participate in activities you both will enjoy. Attend pre-match and on-going training and support sessions. Bring your mentee to (or arrange for him to attend) the semi-monthly peer group meetings. Complete a simple monthly report on-line, over the phone, or with your coordinator about your relationship and activities with your mentee.

Foster care children nationwide average three foster family placements. Almost half the children under 13 years old in the District of Columbia first go into group homes or institutions.These children have many adults revolving in and out of their lives, so we ask for a two-year commitment. You may be their only consistent, caring, and competent adult between their foster care placements.  You are desperately needed in their lives.

You’d be surprised at what a little time can do for a foster care child--not to mention what it can for you. Please contact us for more information.