Community Programs

Children between the ages of 6-15 are matched one-to-one with a volunteer mentor.  The volunteer spends 2 hrs a week or 6-8 hours a month for a minimum of one year.  Activities take place outside the child’s home at agreed upon locations such as local parks, museums, and in the volunteer’s home or in the community.  The focus is the development of a friendship through shared interest activities, and opportunities.

Eligibility factors for volunteer enrollment include:

• must be 18 years old
• must be a Dutchess County resident for at least 3 months
• must have a valid driver’s license
• must take part in an orientation and interview process
• must commit to live in the area for at least a year
• allow us to do a home visit
• have reliable transportation
• must be a good role model and stable as determined by our screening process
• must have appropriate motivation for involvement
• must possess ability to develop meaningful relationships

A criminal background investigation and reference check will be conducted on the volunteer.