What is Mentoring?
It's all about inspiring child or youth to be their greatest self through an adult friendship. Our matches (the mentor and child or mentee) spend 1-4 hours a week together for one year. Matches often continue beyond that.

Why would a child need a mentor?
All kids need positive caring adults in their lives. With families being spread out geographically, and many families split up by divorce - access to adults may be limited. Some kids simply need extra attention or a boost in self-esteem. Some need more opportunities to experience positive leisure activities.

What about me - the parent?
The parent's role always comes first. The mentor isn’t there to replace the parent's authority or role. He or she is there to be another special adult in the life of your child - much like a favorite aunt or uncle, grandma or grandpa. Studies have shown that many parents experience an improved relationship with their child after their child has been matched with a mentor.

Where do the mentors come from?
They are caring adults in the community who truly like kids. Mentors believe in the philosophy takes a village to raise a child. Our mentor application process is thorough – requiring an orientation, three references, a criminal background check, an extensive interview in their home, and a 2-hour training prior to being matched. Our mentors tell us they enjoy the mentoring relationship as much as the child.

Do I have a say in who my child is matched with?
Absolutely! The parent always has the final approval. You know your child best - and we give you the opportunity to meet and talk to the mentor prior to the match appointment.

What do I do to apply to get a mentor?
Contact Kids ‘n Kinship at 952-891-3885. We will send you a child application to complete. When we receive it back from you, we will set up a time to visit with you and your child in your home, so that we have an opportunity to get to know you and have a good idea of the kind of person you'd like as a mentor for your child.