Are you interested in helping a foster child break out of the cycle of abuse? You can use your experience in your field of work to help mentor and expose children in foster care to career paths.
Obtaining a higher education was once a dream many children had. As time goes on, it is becoming less of a dream and more of a necessity in order to survive in today’s society. In the State of Texas, every child who is currently or formerly in the conservatorship of DFPS are exempt from payment from any state supported colleges or universities. Even with access to education, only 3-4% of former foster youth obtain a four-year degree and 2-6% receive a two-year degree.
Our brand new career guidance program works with mentors, guides and community partners to help youth gain the skills they need to be successful in school and a variety of careers in various industries.
Mentors
Foster youth in our care are in vital need of mentorship from committed, caring adults. By becoming a mentor, you will provide unwavering support, advice, advocacy and resources in order to ensure youth complete their degrees and explore career paths to find one most suitable to their skills and interests.
This one-on-one relationship will allow mentors and youth to build a trusting relationship.
Click here to fill out the mentor application
Guides
As a former foster youth, sharing lived experiences helps form a unique friendship with youth. Becoming a stable, reliable, mature friend who imparts respect and wisdom into the youths life paves the way for a positive role model relationship. Help encourage goal setting, achievement, completion of post-secondary/college education and importance of building a personal/professional networks.
As a mentor or a guide, you will receive various trainings through Jonathan’s Place. You will attend events with other mentors and guides. With the support of JP staff, you will serve as an advocate for your youth.
Click here to fill out the guide application
Community Partners
As a community partner, you are given the opportunity to invest in the future of JP kids. Whether presenting about your company and career, hosting youth at your place of work or offering the chance to intern, you will be many of our youths first exposure to stable employment.
We require community partners to attend at least one social event and one in person presentation a year.
Click here to fill out the community partner application.
For more information please email Ashley Lay at alay@kidnet.org.