Become a Mentor

Who knows? You could be mentoring the next Michelle Obama!

City of Dreams’ mentoring program helps to empower underprivileged youth (ages 8+) in the Bayview community by providing support, guidance, and commitment. By being a mentor and a friend to our youth, you will be helping them make positive life choices that enable them to maximize their potential. As part of a community dedicated to our youth, mentors can help youth develop and reach positive academic, career, and personal goals.

We are looking for two types of mentors:

1-on-1 mentors build friendships with individual mentees
Group mentors build relationships during group outings

We take great consideration in matching mentors with mentees. Mentors usually start out as Group Mentors to allow relationships to blossom through similar interests and compatibility. Our goal is to create genuine and authentic friendships that will continue beyond our program.

Learn more about the benefits of mentoring →

Requirements.

Mentors must meet all of the following criteria:

✔ Must be at least 21 years of age for 1:1 mentoring or 18 years of age for group mentoring

✔ Submit and pass an interview process and a criminal history check

✔ Have reliable transportation or insurance and a valid driver’s license

✔ Make a 1-year minimum commitment for group mentors or 2-year minimum commitment for 1:1 mentoring

✔ 1:1 mentors spend at least 2 days a month with mentees; Group mentors attend at least 1 City of Dreams event per month

How it works.

Review specific needs and requirements to determine if you’d be a good fit. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to info@cityofdreams.org and one of our team members will get back to you.
Complete the application form below. Be ready to let us know why you want to volunteer with us!
Let’s get to know each other! One of our team members will reach out for a phone screening to get a better sense of who you are.
Once we decide that you’re a good fit, you’ll submit a TB test, a background check, and attend a virtual orientation. Mentors must pay for their TB test and background check and will get reimbursed after 6-months of commitment.
We like to start our mentors off as group mentors to find organic relationships that form on our Super Saturday field trips. Once we see a potential match, we’ll reach out to you and the mentee to decide on whether you are a good fit or not. This process may be quick for some or may take months for others.
Mentors also have the option to start off as 1:1 mentors. These mentors will film a quick introduction video of themselves for our mentees to choose who they’d want to be matched with.
Let the fun begin! All of our events and outings are free for both group and 1:1 mentors. A few fun opportunities include Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, and Topgolf! Transportation to each event varies but would be helpful if mentors have their own vehicles.
Once you’re matched with a mentee (if you choose to become a 1:1 mentor), you’ll get to decide on what activities you’ll embark on together. Whether it’s trying new food or setting academic goals, you’ll be there every step of the way to help your mentee discover their potential.
In addition to the fun and free group outings, 1:1 mentors also get special tickets to attend outings with their mentees such as Giant’s games, Warriors games, pottery classes, and more! Unfortunately, we do not reimburse mentors for individual outings (but is something we’re working on!).
We host quarterly mixers for mentors to convene and bond over their experiences with their mentees. This is a great way to connect, share stories, and get advice on how to build a stronger relationship with your mentee.
Mentors will attend quarterly training to learn how to better serve Bayview youth. You’ll also have full support from our Program Manager for any questions or concerns.

What to expect.

Since the pandemic, many of our youth have been dealing with:

Isolation
Anxiety
Low self-esteem
Falling behind in academics

As a mentor to a Bayview youth, expect the need to break down barriers before getting vulnerable with your mentee. This may take time for youth as they need time to develop trust with an adult. Once they build trust with you, you’ll be amazed by how much vibrant energy they radiate!

Ultimately, your goal as a mentor is to help youth through their developmental stages and develop a relationship that will go beyond City of Dreams. Many adults come and go in their lives, giving them a sense that no one is willing to stay long enough to help them grow. Take on this opportunity to show our youth that they matter and are deserving of an adult’s time and companionship.

Your monthly visits may consist of exploring new areas of the city, helping with school work, museum visits, sporting events, or attending a City of Dreams event. You’ll have access to our Mentors Locked Page where you’ll have a calendar of events you may sign up for. More information will be discussed during your onboarding process.

What does being a City of Dreams mentor look like?