05/29/2017
JDS Mentorship Program Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is JDS Family Commitment?
JDS Family Commitment Inc. ("JDS") is a newly formed nonprofit organization dedicated to youth empowerment and the betterment of the entire family. The agency was created to service New Jersey's most vulnerable youth and their families. Our services include prevention, mentorship, tutoring, case management, individual, group and family counseling. The first initiative that JDS has launched is the Brotherly Inspired Growth (B.I.G.) and Notable Outstanding Women (N.O.W) mentorship programs.
2. What does the mentorship program consists of?
At JDS, we believe that quality mentoring relationships have powerful positive effects on young people in a variety of personal, academic and professional situations. Our program pairs qualified mentors with mentees that will provide unparalleled support and guidance to help our mentees reach their goals in life. Each mentor is required to follow a curriculum that provides lesson plans for guided discussions with their mentees. These discussions include topics such as career planning, financial literacy and healthy relationships just to name a few.
3. How much time am I required to commit to as a mentor/mentee.
The mentorship programs are mentor/mentee friendly and we do not demand too much of your time. We offer two different mentor/mentee options. The first is to meet in a group setting once per month with other mentors and mentees to have group discussions for approximately 1-2 hours. The other option is to work one-on-one with a mentor/mentee for a minimum of 30 mins at least once per month. One-on-one sessions are set by both the mentor and mentee as their schedules permit. Mentors and mentees are able to participate in either of these two options or both.
4. How do I become a mentor?
To become a mentor sign up on our website at jdsfamilycommitment.org/programs
After you are signed up, you will be contacted by the Program Directors to schedule a training session. The training is approximately two hours long and will detail the mentorship rules, guidelines and curriculum extensively. Training is mandatory for all mentors.
5. What is the age requirement for mentors?
Mentors should be at least 16 years old. Mentors between the ages of 16-19 will be required to work with a mentor and be a mentee of the program as well.
6. How do I become a mentee?
To become a mentee sign up on our website at jdsfamilycommitment.org/programs
After you sign up, you will be contacted by the Program Directors and paired with a mentor.
7. What is the age requirement for mentees?
Our program services children and young adults between the ages of 8-18 years old.
