Mentoring

The mentoring program is designed for volunteers from the community who are willing to offer support to those seeking or maintaining employment. Consider for a moment that these people may have never worked or have been off work for a long time and now are required to return to the work place. This is a major change in their lives.

Many needs arise from this transition. Many lack self-esteem. Some may need someone to call on them and give them that push they need to show up at work everyday, to stay calm when dealing with co-workers or management or just to let them know they can do it. Others need someone they can talk to about how to approach a new job or new co-workers. Some may need guidance on managing their time with work and children. These are just a few of the basic life skill needs that will be arising in their lives as they venture out in the work-a-day world. Meeting these needs is what makes mentoring so important.

Look at what you can do as a mentor.

• Promote self-esteem
• Give encouragement
• Be supportive in failure
• Teach responsibility
• Mediate for the client

To volunteer, call Michael Schuette at (618) 526-7203. It is a very rewarding opportunity. Help us help others.