Mentoring

Our mentoring program supports youth through skill‑building workshops and meaningful one‑on‑one relationships.

At Volunteers for Youth, youth can participate in one of two different mentoring components: Community Mentoring or Group Mentoring .

Through community mentoring, children from eight to fourteen years of age are matched one-on-one with a responsible adult volunteer (18 years of age and older). Volunteers are screened and trained to serve as constructive role models and consistent friends. Volunteer mentors and children agree to spend at least two hours a week for twelve months together, engaging in activities of mutual interest such as hiking, cooking, or playing basketball.

Children from all over Orange County are referred to the community mentoring program by many different people for many different reasons. Juvenile court counselors, school staff, mental health professionals, and parents all may refer children who could benefit from the time and attention of a caring adult.

Life Labs is our refreshed approach to Group Mentoring; offering a series of interactive, opt‑in life‑skills workshops that youth can join based on their interests and goals. Led by VFY staff and trained volunteers, these sessions provide a supportive space where young people build confidence, strengthen leadership abilities, and explore topics related to personal growth, communication, financial literacy and social justice.

Workshops are open to local youth, and participants can sign up directly through our online registration link. Each Life Lab is designed to help youth connect with peers, practice new skills, and feel empowered in their daily lives.