Tahoe Mentor Project

The Tahoe Mentor Project pairs volunteers with youth with an incarcerated parent between the ages of 5 and 15. Volunteer mentors provide the students with emotional support, encouragement, and practical assistance. The mentors are given training and support from the program coordinator and the entire agency. Mentors are asked to commit one hour a week to their mentee. Mentor-mentee activities may include going to the movies, playgrounds and parks, phone calls, sports and trips to a coffee shop.

If you are a caring adult who is looking for a way to share what you have learned in life, perhaps mentoring is for you. To learn more about the program and how to become a mentor call the Mentor Program Coordinator at 530-541-2445 ext. 106.

If you know of a child who has an incarcerated parent and could benefit from a mentor relationship, call the agency to make a referral.

Thinking about becoming a mentor?

A 13 year old student at the South Tahoe Middles School, Brianne, was referred to our mentoring program a year ago by her teacher. Brianne’s home life is challenging. She has a little brother that she often cares for when they are home alone late into the night while their mom works. Brianne’s father is serving a life sentence in prison. Her mom is in and out of jail for drug related offenses. Brianne has adapted to her life which results in her apparent shyness, low self esteem and negative self image.

An adult woman., Kate, from South Lake Tahoe dropped by TYFS interested in becoming a mentor. Kate retired a few years ago and successfully raised her own daughter. She has some free time to give back. She too had low self esteem when she was younger. The support of her family overshadowed her negative feelings and allowed her to be successful and happy with herself.

Both Brianne and Kate were ready to be matched after a long interview and background check process. It was obvious to the Program Coordinator that they would bring out the best in each other. They get coffee and go bowling. They talk on the phone and spend about 4 or 5 hours a week in contact. They both talk about how it no longer feels like an obligation. Rather, it’s a treat to spend time with one another.

Kate is happy to be able to give back to her community and sees how the relationship has improved her life. Brianne has improved self esteem, recently asserted herself enough to make alternate living arrangements for herself that are more safe and stable and openly communicates her thoughts and feelings. Kate’s support and friendship has allowed Brianne the comfort to blossom out of her shy veneer. She now receives A’s regularly in school and see hope for her future. Brianne told me that she stops to think about the last year and half of her life and the people who have been there for her. Kate and Tahoe Youth & Family Services have been the only consistent figures. She likes how Kate really listens to her and concludes that they have a lot of fun together.

Be a hero, be a mentor.