Mentor with MIKE Program

Mentor and youth build a kidney

What does a mentor do?

Each mentor guides a group of 4-5 teens in their larger classroom towards becoming advocates for healthy behaviors. Youth groups are facilitated by the teachers and Content Trainers and Mentors help lead the youth through enrichment activities to form healthy relationships that will guide the youth to academic and career success. Classroom activities include creating a scrapbook, eating healthy snacks, exercise, designing a t-shirt, and planning and implementing a community project. Mentors are also encouraged to accompany the youth on a variety of field trips which may include:

  • Dialysis center facility tour
  • Grocery store scavenger hunt
  • Discover OHSU!

Mentor takes blood pressure

Who can be a Mentor?

All mentors must be 20 year of age or over. No medical background is required.

What is the time commitment?

Mentors commit to one project which requires a minimum of one academic semester (approximately 4-6 months) to a full academic year of approximately 3 hours per week, including up to 1.5 hours in the classroom one day each week, plus travel and prep time. Prior to placement, mentors attend a 1-hour Volunteer Orientation and complete 12-14 hours of Mentor Training. Training includes an introduction to MIKE Program curriculum, Career-related learning skills, and best practices of youth development and adolescent health education.

Once placed as a mentor, it is IMPERATIVE that you model attendance, commitment to the relationship, and healthy behavior!

How do I become a Mentor?

Before beginning, mentors are required to fill out a Volunteer Interest Form and a Mentor Application, undertake a position-specific interview with MIKE Program staff, undergo fingerprinting for background checks (at no charge to you), submit a copy of your driver’s license or other ID, and participate in orientation and training.