Y-FRIENDz  
   

The Y-FRIENDz program started in 2004 and has successfully paired children of incarcerated parents with mentors who meet a couple times per month with the assigned youth for a year.

Mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear.

Please contact the Program Director at 619-281-8313 for more information.

Click here to download the Mentor Application.

Mentors and coaches needed!
       
 
 

The Y-FRIENDz Process

  1. A youth is referred to the program by a parent, counselor, or other adult.
  2. Y-FRIENDz uses an interview process to “pair” the youth with a mentor.
  3. The mentor and mentee make a commitment to meet every week for a year. Weekly meetings, 1-3 hours each, include outings, assistance with homework, sports, or other activities as chosen by the pair. A monthly activity is organized by Y-FRIENDz for all mentors and mentees to attend together.
  4. After one year, the mentee may opt to continue meeting for another year (until he or she is 16) or graduate out of the program. A mentee “graduate” is encouraged to continue attending Y-FRIENDz events, with the aim of creating his or her interest in becoming a mentor in the future.