Friends First FAQ's

Mentoring Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need special skills to be a mentor?
A: Mentoring isn’t about having a special talent—it’s about being yourself.  If you are patient, a good listener and can be a positive role model, you have what it takes.

Q: How are kids referred to Friends First?
A: Many of the youth in our program are referred by their parents who recognize that their child will benefit from additional positive influences in their life.  We also  frequently receive referrals from schools and social service agencies.

Q: What types of kids are involved in Friends First?
A: Our kids come from homes in which the parents or guardians cannot always find enough time to give the one-on-one attention that kids crave.  The youth may have low self-esteem and be lacking in social skills.  Often, these young people simply want to broaden their horizons and seek new possibilities.   All of the kids in our program voluntarily participate and are excited about the possibility of having a mentor in their lives. 

Q: What types of activities do Friends First matches do? 
A: We encourage matches to choose activities that foster communication and are free or low-cost.  Also we offer monthly group activities, and provide a book of ideas to all new matches.  Mentors receive our monthly activity update.   

Q: What if my mentee and I have a situation that we don't know how to handle?
A: You will always have a staff member to talk with about your mentoring friendship.  In fact there are several layers of support available to you when you are matched in our program.  Every volunteer is assigned a Match Support Representative (MSR) who will be available to you whenever you have questions or concerns. Your MSR will meet with you on a monthly basis to provide encouragement and answer any questions you may have.  In addition, we have a licensed psychologist on call 24 hours a day.

Q: How will I know if I’m making a difference?
A: This is a tough question.  We would all love to see the immediate impact of our actions in the lives of children, but sometimes change takes time and the true impact we make shows up years later.  However, if you have an eye for small moments of hope and change then you’ll know you are making a difference. We’ll share with you an approach to mentoring that will help you recognize the little things you do that can make an immediate and lasting impact.  In additon, all Friends First mentees take the Developmental Assets Profile test at the beginning and end of their matches to help chart their growth and change.

Q: How much time do mentors spend with a child? 
A: In Friends First, we ask that you go on outings with your mentee 3-4 times a month for one year.  Most outings will take place on weekends.  The family and you may set your own schedule.  Our volunteers find that the amount of time spent with their mentee quickly becomes an important part of their routine.  They can't imagine missing it.

Q: Do I need a car for Friends First?
A: No.  If you do not have a car, we will be sure to match you with a child who is near public transportation.

More questions?  Click here to learn more about how you can make a difference in a child's life.