Volunteer

Description

This is a community based mentoring programme, matching a young person (Aged 10-18) with an adult volunteer (Aged 18+). Young people may be referred by other support services or their family may enquire directly. An assessment is completed with each young person and their family to set out their goals, and a compatible mentor is then selected to be matched to the young person. Matches meet once a week for an initial one year period and are supported by a staff member for the duration of the programme. Meetings include various activites, as decided by the young person and Mentor. Typical activities including walking, sport, chatting and even things as simple as grabbing a coffee or hot chocolate together! Young people and Mentors are matched up together based on any shared interest, hobbies and personality types, in so far as possible. A volunteer may wish to be matched up to a young person in their local area, or can travel to another area in order to meet with a young person.

Mentors undergo an intake procedure, including Garda Vetting, Informal Interview and References. Training is also provided for volunteers, prior to engaging in the programme. Volunteers are supported by a dedicated Foroige Mentoring Staff Person throughout the programme.

Is training provided?:Yes

Please note that Garda Vetting is required for this position which will be processed with you after you apply.

Tasks that the volunteer(s) will be expected to undertake:

Volunteers are asked to undergo the Intake process for the programme. 

Once approved as a Volunteer Mentor, the commitment asked of volunteers is a one hour meeting per week for an initial year period. This aids in the development of the friendship with a young person, and also allows each individual to get to know each other. 

Volunteers are supported throughout, with regular check ins with Foróige Mentoring Staff once matched.

Benefits of Volunteering:

• Support/advice/ recognition

• Supervision
• Initial induction and training
• Reimbursement of expenses
• Ongoing training opportunities

Knowing that you are contributing to helping a young person making change in their own life. Experience in mentoring a young person and understanding the world from a young persons' perspective.

Details of time commitment needed for role:
The timing of meetings is as decided by the Mentor themselves and the young person. It is the aim of the programme that it fits into each individuals schedule. We ask that each Mentor meet with their matched young person for at least one hour per week, for an initial year.

Minimum time commitment per week:
1 hour p/week

Additional screening required for this role::
Screening for the role includes: Application Form & References Garda Vetting Informal Interview Home Visit Training (Induction Training, Child Protection Awareness Programme Training) We ask that any student interested in getting involved with this particular posting, be attending Third Level Education in Co.Mayo, or reside in Co.Mayo for a certain amount during the week. We are a national organisation, so if you would like to get involved outside of Co.Mayo, please see the Mentoring section on Foroige.ie

Sustainable Development Goal:

Hei:
ATU - GALWAY, ATU - MAYO, ATU - SLIGO, ATU - ST ANGELAS, UNIVERSITY OF GALWAY