Become a mentor
Research shows that kids mentored by a caring adult at an early age more successfully maneuver through life’s obstacles.
The Legacy Mentor Program
Our Legacy Mentor Program (LMP) matches teens and young adults in the dependency system, ages 13-23, with positive role models in their community.
Mentors come from all walks of life, and do not serve the same role as a case manager or foster/adoptive parent. They have a very unique role that allows them to be a trusted friend, voice of encouragement and listening ear. Mentors spend quality time with their mentees, introducing them to activities that expand their horizons; often teaching life skills that are typically passed on by one’s mother or father; and listening to their stories with a compassionate heart.
The gift of your time and attention can make a difference for generations to come.
If you’ve decided you want to make a difference in a young person’s life, the next step is to complete a volunteer interest form.
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Are you a current mentor? If so, please regularly submit a volunteer hours tracking form.
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Embrace Families Community Based Care, Inc. is a community-based care lead agency contracted with the Florida Department of Children and Families.
Research shows that:
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Students who meet regularly with their mentors are 52% less likely than their peers to skip a day of school and 37% less likely to skip a class. (Public/Private Ventures Study of Big Brothers Big Sisters)
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Young adults who face an opportunity gap but have a mentor are 55% more likely to be enrolled in college than those who did not have a mentor (The Mentoring Effect, 2014)
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Youth with mentors are 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs and 27% less likely to start drinking. (Public/Private Ventures study of Big Brothers Big Sisters)
Children who are connected with a caring adult at an early age will more successfully maneuver through life’s obstacles.
Mentor Stories: Angela and Aliyah
“My first meeting with Aliyah was on a Saturday. We went to McDonald’s and talked for over an hour. On the way back to her home, Aliyah looked at me and said, “I think you will like me.” I smiled at her and, with a wink, said, ‘You think?’.
My second visit with Aliyah was in a very different setting. I visited with her one month later at the Juvenile Hall Court House after she found herself in a bit of trouble. After her court appearance, I went back with her case manager to see her. I want to believe she was both surprised and happy to see me. I looked around to see who from Aliyah’s family was present. There was no one. She was alone. Knowing this, I promised I would visit so she knew she had someone to rely on. Later that week, I went from 7-8pm and sat with her in the visitation room at the Detention Center.
When I learned neither parent had come to visit her at the center, it became all the more important for me to be there for her. We talked and laughed and got serious and laughed again. I made it clear I was going to visit her again before her next court date and, if allowed, ride with her and her case manager to her new home once she is released. I am hoping by keeping my word and being there for her, she will know with all certainty that, yes, I do like her. And that someone out there cares.”
-Angela F.
Start this Life-Changing Journey Today
Mentors must be at least 25 years old and have the ability to transport the youth. A background check and training is required prior to being matched with your mentee. Please email our mentor program manager at youthservices@embracefamilies.org for more information.
Christie
"The purpose of doing philanthropic work isn't to make you feel good, but honestly it does. In a world where we tend to put ourselves first, mentoring allows you to take a step back and invest in someone else. I have a young person who looks to me for guidance, and I know I am making an impact. Phrankie is more than just my mentee. She has become an extended member of our family."
For children unable to live with their parents due to neglect or abuse, a safe and loving home to “feel normal” again can make all the difference. As a foster parent, you help provide the stability and understanding needed during a scary and traumatic time.
Right now, dozens of children in foster care are awaiting a “forever family.” As an adoptive parent, you have the power to provide the unconditional love and support that will change a child’s life forever.
In an ideal world, no child would have to enter foster care. Support our efforts to prevent abuse and neglect by helping us to address child abuse prevention, family stability and youth success.
