Our Program

Providing a future and a hope for at risk youth

Our Program

Since 2006, Mentoring Tucson’s Kids was founded to address the needs of youth, to assist in their development and to support the family unit in raising Tucson’s most vulnerable population. MTK exists to locate, train, and support mentors to display the love of Christ to kids facing tough life challenges in Pima County through one-to-one relationships. Our main focus is youth ages 6-17 who feel like they can benefit from having a mentor relationship. We recruit, train and match caring adult Christian mentors with referred youth for one-on-one mentoring for a year-long commitment, with an option to continue on as an alumni match after the first year. Mentors and youth are matched by taking into consideration personality, social, interests and specific needs of the child. In our mentoring relationships, we focus on areas of academic standing, intellectual development, social ability, emotional and mental health and spiritual growth. Mentors and their mentees set goals together based on these areas and spend time together weekly to work towards these goals. They are also invited to attend monthly events planned by Mentoring Tucson’s Kids such as an annual fishing trip to Patagonia Lake, University of Arizona athletic games, photography lessons by Parks In Focus, dance and art events, educational activities, community service and seasonal events, etc. Matches also meet with the mentor coordinator to review relationship status and progress at 3, 6, and 12 months. The mentors send monthly contact reports to the mentor coordinator for oversight and to identify any challenges. Although we are a faith based program, we accept youth referrals for mentors from all different faiths and backgrounds.

Mentor Requirements

Mentors must be: 18 years or older; able to commit to an average of at least 1 contact per week with mentee for 1 year (with the potential to continue with the mentorship relationship after the first year); pass background check and motor vehicle record; personal interview, fingerprint clearance, and provide three personal references. Mentors also must complete an initial mentor orientation and identify as Christian and demonstrate a life committed to following Jesus Christ.

Mentee Requirements

Children must meet the age and one of the following criteria:

• Ages 6-17
• The child has expressed an interest and request a mentor and parent/guardian agrees
• Parent or legal guardian request mentorship for the child
• Referred by an official governmental, social services, educational or health agency

What does Faith-Based mean in Mentoring Tucson’s Kids?

At Mentoring Tucson’s Kids, faith-based means that the organization, board, staff, and mentors, believe in the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. With that being said, we endeavor to exemplify the Love of Christ and HIS character in all that we say and do, and in every aspect of the mentoring relationships.

Why Mentoring Tucson's Kids?

MTK is not in the business of just providing a temporary distraction for a child from their reality.