1. What is
MentorKids USA?
MentorKids USA is a faith-based mentoring organization
working to locate, train and empower mentors to be the presence
of Christ to kids facing tough life challenges through one-to-one
relationships.
2. How
long has MentorKids USA been in existence?
MentorKids USA was established in May 1997 as Phoenix MatchPoint,
and changed its name in 2003.
3. Why
did the organization change its name?
The board of directors voted to change the name of the
organization to reflect more clearly the mission of the
organization as a youth-focused mentoring organization.
4. How
is MentorKids USA funded?
Funding for the organization is primarily provided through
the generous support of individual donors and churches.
In addition, a portion of our financial support is provided
through corporate gifts, contracts,
and government and private foundation grants.
5. Who are
your
mentors?
Mentors are caring Christian adults who want to affect
the life of a child in his or her community. They come from
all walks of life, but share the common objective of spending
time with a child for the sake of making a difference in
their lives both for now and for eternity.
6. How
can I get involved?
You can become a mentor, and/or help financially. To become
a mentor, click here.
To donate online, click here.
To contact us by phone, call 480.767.6707.
7. Why
do you only accept Christian mentors?
As a faith-based organization, MentorKids
USA is a ministry to kids and their families. The
most valuable aspect of what we have to offer is the love
of Jesus Christ. While we believe that other mentoring programs
have great merit, it is important to us that our mentors
are equipped to share the good news of who Jesus is and
how He can provide a future and a hope for anyone.
8.
Who are the youth in your program and where do you
hear about them?
The youth in our program come from a variety of backgrounds,
but they all need the support of another adult in their
lives to help them. Specifically, the youth we serve have
one or more of the following risk factors in their lives:
One
or both parents incarcerated
Single-parent household
Trouble with drugs or alcohol
Contact with the criminal justice system
Significant school problems
Youth are referred to us from their parents, school officials,
social workers, and other ministries.
9. Are kids
in your program required
to attend church or other religious services?
There is no requirement for mentees to attend church or
participate in other religious activities. However, mentors
will naturally share their faith through their example and
lifestyle. There will be opportunities for Bible study and
spiritual discussions for those youth who are interested.
10. What
are the benefits of mentoring?
Research has demonstrated that youth involved in a mentoring
relationship are much more likely to have better behaviors
and perspectives on life. To learn more, see “The
Role of Mentoring”.
