Parent FAQ
Absolutely! The parent always has the final approval. You know your child best. We give you the opportunity to meet and talk to the mentor prior to the match appointment.
Complete the child application after reading “Is Kids ‘n Kinship Right for My Child” and this Parent FAQ. We will review your application and then contact you to schedule a visit with you and your child in your home. This gives us the opportunity to get to know you and child so we can arrange the best possible match.
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.
It’s all about inspiring children or youth to be their greatest self through an adult friendship. Our matches (the mentor and child or mentee) spend one to four hours a week together for one year. Matches often continue beyond that.
They are caring adults in the community who truly like kids. Mentors believe that it 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.
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.