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The Journey 4-H Youth Mentoring program pairs youth in Ottawa County ages 8-17 with positive adult role models in an effort to reduce the frequency and severity of delinquent behavior. The success of the program is in large part due to the strong partnership between Michigan State University Extension and 20th Circuit Court Family Division Juvenile Services. Participation in the program by the youth is voluntary, and referrals from probation officers or counselors for youth wanting mentors are never in short supply. The mentors go through a lengthy screening and training process before being matched with a youth. After being matched the mentor and youth spend at least two hours together each week for a year. It is not uncommon for matches to stay together for several years and spend four or more hours together each week. The Journey program continues to serve as a model of mentoring success and has received local, state and national recognition.
Potential mentors complete a detailed screening process. Screening involves:
- Completing an application
- Criminal history, protective services and driving record check
- Completing an interview with a Case Manager
- Three references
Upon acceptance to the program, the volunteer will sign-up for training, which is scheduled around the volunteer's availability. Training is 12 hours and usually is split into three 3-hour sessions.
If you are interested in becoming a mentor or learning more, please contact one of the staff members listed below. There are many youth in our area waiting for an adult friend. You could be the person that they are waiting for.
Be a mentor. Change a life.
Contact Information:
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4-H Youth Mentoring Journey Program Coordinator
Ottawa County Mentoring Collaborative Co-chair
Phone: (616) 994-4580
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Case Manager, Journey 4-H Mentoring Program
Phone: (616) 994-4580
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Betsy Knoll
AmeriCorps Journey 4-H Youth Mentoring: AIM
Phone: (616) 994-4580
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Case Manager, Journey 4-H Youth Mentoring : AIM
Phone: (616) 994-4580
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