What are the age ranges of foster youth that you work with?

We generally work with foster youth between the ages of 14-25.  Although most of our volunteering opportunities involve young adults between 18 - 25.  

How long is the typical volunteer opportunity?  

In our training, we say that we are looking for at least a year commitment, but we are hoping for a lifetime relationship between you and some of the young adults.  ​

How much time do your volunteers spend with the young adults each month?

The adults spend 8 - 10 hours a month with the young adults including two face-to-face meetings and check-ins throughout the month.  

What happens if I can't complete my year commitment?  

Because the young adults have had so many people in and out of their lives without any communication or idea what happened, we ask that you communicate that you are leaving - along with the reasons why - which will hopefully alleviate any fears they may have that they might have done or said something to cause you to leave the program.  

What activities do the volunteers participate in when spending time with young adults?

The activities are completely up to you.  We have a list of 100 free activities to do in Los Angeles that many of our co-mentors look through with the young adults that can help you get started.  You can also share your favorite spots with young adults - like museums, parks, beaches, hikes, etc.  The young adults also love to explore other areas of Los Angeles and appreciate when you are willing to share in activities in their part of town as well.  Throughout the month, all co-mentors can participate in group meetings and activities scheduled by us as well.  

 Why is everyone called a co-mentor? 

 We truly believe that you will receive as much from this mentoring relationship as the young adults will.  We believe that everyone has much to offer as well as much to gain from the co-mentoring community.   

I'm not sure if this is something that I can commit to just yet.  Is there a way to find out more?  

Of course, we'd love to have you attend one of our orientation sessions where we can tell you more about working with foster youth, our programs and ways that you can get involved.  

If I am not able to commit my time, but want to help, what can I do?  

Not everyone can donate time, but still, have a lot to offer.  Feel free to contact us and we will do our best to find a way to support the foster youth in our programs.  

Are all potential co-mentors/volunteers required to go through a background check and fingerprinting before working directly with the young adults?

 Yes, all potential co-mentors/volunteers undergo a background check and fingerprinting before being allowed to work directly with the young adults in our program.