This week we share the following resources for mentors looking to make a difference and special opportunities for youth with disabilities looking to reach their full potential with support from a mentor.
1. Partners for Youth with Disabilities
(PYD) offers one-to-one & group mentoring programs where adult mentors with and without disabilities act as positive role models and provide support and guidance for youth with disabilities. PYD’s unique programs include Access to theater, recreational activities at select Boston YMCAs, healthy living, and an entrepreneur’s project. For info on the Mentor Match program, contact Jeff Lafata, at 617-556-4075 x18.
Other resources on the PYD site include:
- Mentoring 101: An Introductory Workshop for New Mentors
a resourceful training manual for adult volunteers interested in mentoring youth with disabilities - Best Practices Guide in Mentoring Youth with Disabilities
a useful tool to help you start your own mentoring program or expand one you currently run to include youth with disabilities. - National Center for Mentoring Youth with Disabilities
offers trainings, technical assistance and support for youth-serving
organizations committed to making their programs more inclusive of youth with disabilities.
2. Best Buddies Jobs
an inspirational program that provides leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For additional information contact Jake Laverriere, jacoblaverriere@bestbuddies.org , (617) 778-0522.
3. REC Connect
a program of the Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Universal Access Program serving people with physical disabilities in Greater Boston, Worcester and Holyoke, MA interested in expanding their recreation opportunities. REC Connect is currently looking for Peer Mentors and Volunteers for adaptive recreation. To apply, contact Heidi Marie-Peterson at Heidi.Marie-Peterson@ state.ma.us.
4. Mass Mentoring Partnership
is the statewide umbrella organization for more than 170 organizations supporting 23,000 youth in mentoring relationships.
- Mentoring Opportunities Near You
provides a searchable database by zip code and distance. For an “Advanced” search, you can narrow it down by age group.
5. Mentor: National Mentoring Partnership
provides a variety of mentoring resources and publications.
Also check workplace human resource department, schools and universities for possible mentor / mentee opportunities.