debra of America created the Youth Mentorship Program to connect kids and teens with young adults who have shared in the same experience as them: Growing up with EB!
Through these meaningful, monitored matches, our volunteer mentors will be a source of support on a variety of topics. Our youth mentorship program is a virtual, one-on-one Zoom mentorship opportunity.
How It Works
DEBRA Mentors (ages 18 + ) and their mentees (ages 8-17) are accepted through debra of America’s careful interview and application process, and then matched one-to-one based on ages, experiences, personalities and preferences. Each pair will meet virtually over the course of 6 months, an approximate total of 2 hours per month, based on an individualized schedule that works for them!
Meet-ups are through debra of America’s safe, secure and recorded Zoom platform. A variety of recommended topics will be discussed as well as unique interests and/or issues that the mentee would like to tackle. The goals of the meetups are to benefit the mentee through constructive role-modeling, encouragement, and positive reinforcement.
Through meaningful discussions and insights into balancing EB, a social life, education & more, mentors provide the mentee a personal window into a possible future.
Apply
debra of America’s mentorship cycle will run:
March 1 - August 31, 2024
*2+ hours per month required
The ideal mentee is looking to connect with a young adult with EB to become friends with, learn from, and share experiences. The suggested age range for a mentee is 8-17, but open to all individuals who are interested in being mentored.
Enrollment is now closed. For inquiries, email programs@debra.org.
Our volunteer mentors are passionate about sharing their experiences growing up with EB. These motivated young adults are looking to make meaningful connections with their mentees and help them through the unique challenges of growing up with EB. Our mentors are good listeners who are there to help their mentee.
Desirable Qualities
- Active, understanding, and responsive listener
- Compassionate and supportive
- Responsible with time management
Benefits for the Mentor!
- Personal and professional development in working with youth
- Opportunity to reflect on their own personal goals and practices
- Growth in leadership capacity by taking strides to support those in the community
- Experience the fun and enjoyment of positively benefitting the life of your mentee
Recruitment for the 2024 Mentorship Cycle is now closed. For inquiries, email programs@debra.org.
More Information
All matches in the Youth Mentorship Program are professionally supported by our staff during the course of the mentorship. While this is a one-on-one mentorship opportunity, contact is made regularly to the mentor and mentee to evaluate the match and facilitate a healthy, productive friendship. Fun, virtual group meet-ups will also be hosted for all mentees and mentors to attend.
All accepted mentors are trained on best practices and must participate in mentor group discussions.
Sample topics mentors and mentees discuss:
- School
- Careers/aspirations
- Hobbies and passions
- Everyday life
- Health and wellness
- Identity and self-image
- Navigating relationships
- Transitioning into being more independent
- Interactive puzzles and games
Questions? Reach out to programs@debra.org.
