FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is considered an "at-risk" youth? Who can be referred?
Our definition of an at-risk youth would simply be, "a child/youth/young adult who is less likely to transition successfully into adulthood." Some might be in foster care; others are waiting to be adopted. Some may be homeless or in juvenile detention, while others are living with the effects of substances and/or mental illness. While each circumstance varies, our goal is to reach Alaska's most vulnerable children, youth, and young adults.
That being said, we hold firm to one critical guideline when reviewing referrals: the youth wants to be mentored. We recognize that oftentimes, this population has had no voice or the ability to make their own choices. Therefore, we only consider willing participants.
That being said, we hold firm to one critical guideline when reviewing referrals: the youth wants to be mentored. We recognize that oftentimes, this population has had no voice or the ability to make their own choices. Therefore, we only consider willing participants.
How is Chosen different from other mentorship programs?
We believe deeply in the power of community and connectedness for youth and, therefore, greatly respect and admire our fellow mentorship programs out there. It truly takes a village. Here are a few characteristics that make Chosen unique:
- Mentor Teams - Each Chosen youth is paired with a team of two mentors. In addition to providing extra safety, community, and opportunity for the youth, our mentor pairs are built-in support for one another as they work together to serve their mentee.
- Flexibility - We believe that "Standing in the Gap" for Alaska's youth requires us to think outside of the box. Therefore, we do not have any age requirements or program end dates. Wherever the entry point may be—from the 10 year old entering foster care to the 20 year old who spent significant time in the juvenile justice system—we are tired of Alaska's ever-growing statistics of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, and substance abuse and want to be part of the solution.
- Relationship Focused - The goal of our program is to provide at-risk youth with healthy, reliable relationships that stand the test of time. While we can (and do) help connect participants with services and resources they may need, our main priority is to give them unconditional love and support as they transition into adulthood.
- Faith Based - Chosen is an initiative of Love Alaska, which exists to mobilize the faith community into the most painful, dark, and hurting areas of society. We work alongside local churches, bringing awareness and helping to equip them to serve those in the margins.
- Pro-Active Approach - Our team works with existing youth programs and organizations in Alaska to identify and reach out to potential participants. While we do welcome word-of-mouth referrals, we also intentionally pursue those we feel need mentorship most.
What do you mean by "Standing in the Gap?"
We want our mentors to help fill the practical needs of their mentee, be it physical, mental, spiritual, or emotional. Whether it's helping them learn to write a resume, modeling healthy relationships, or simply having fun, we want to be a safety net for those who don't have one.
Furthermore, we believe that part of our responsibility as followers of Christ is to pray for God's intervention in the lives of others. The idea of "Standing in the Gap" originally comes from Ezekiel 22:30 which says: "I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one." God's heart is moved to act when people cry out on behalf of others and our Chosen team commits to do just that.
Furthermore, we believe that part of our responsibility as followers of Christ is to pray for God's intervention in the lives of others. The idea of "Standing in the Gap" originally comes from Ezekiel 22:30 which says: "I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one." God's heart is moved to act when people cry out on behalf of others and our Chosen team commits to do just that.
How does mentorship benefit youth?
The power of being known and feeling valued is immeasurable, especially in the lives of hurting children and youth. Having someone to call when you're sick, having a bad day, or need help with something is a comfort that many of us take for granted. For reasons oftentimes beyond their control (abuse, neglect, poverty, etc.), many youth find themselves without anyone they can count on. The impact that caring adults can have in the lives of these youth is astounding. Studies* consistently show that youth mentorship produces positive outcomes such as:
- Decreased likelihood of initiating drug and alcohol use
- Healthier relationships and lifestyle choices
- Enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence
- Lower high school dropout rates
- Higher college enrollment rates and higher educational aspirations
- Improved behavior, both at home and at school
- Stronger relationships with parents, teachers, and peers
- Improved interpersonal skills
What kind of time commitment is involved? What does a mentor actually do?
Mentors must be able to commit to at least one year of service with Chosen. While the dynamics of every pairing will vary, we ask our mentors to initiate weekly contact (phone, text, etc.) with with their mentee and set aside time for one to two face-to-face meetings per month.
To begin, Chosen staff will coordinate an initial meeting for mentors/mentees. This will be a time for introductions and setting goals and expectations. After this, mentor teams will work directly with their youth, building trust and connection through activities and regular contact. Mentor teams will also have the support of Chosen staff to help clarify procedures, navigate difficult situations, and facilitate ongoing opportunities for training.
To begin, Chosen staff will coordinate an initial meeting for mentors/mentees. This will be a time for introductions and setting goals and expectations. After this, mentor teams will work directly with their youth, building trust and connection through activities and regular contact. Mentor teams will also have the support of Chosen staff to help clarify procedures, navigate difficult situations, and facilitate ongoing opportunities for training.
What are the steps to become a Chosen Mentor?
Step 1: ENGAGE Training. This two-day intensive training is designed to help disciple the heart and character of our mentors and volunteers as they desire to walk with and serve those in the margins. Click here to see future training dates and registration information.
Step 2: Once you have completed our ENGAGE Training, we will meet with you one-on-one to get to know you better and answer any questions you may have. All prospective mentors will also be required to pass a background check.
Step 2: Once you have completed our ENGAGE Training, we will meet with you one-on-one to get to know you better and answer any questions you may have. All prospective mentors will also be required to pass a background check.