1. Traditional Mentor

These mentorships begin at one of our camps or events where a connection is made between an adult and child/teen. This is the “friend,” the “role model,” the one who can offer support, guidance, advocacy and consistency for the long haul. The goal is to build strong relationships that allow youth to be more resilient in the face of stress and trauma, acquire a wide range of social-emotional strengths, and gain a sense of overall well-being and ability to thrive. This is a long-term commitment.

2. Compass Groups

Our Compass Groups meet on a weekly or bi-monthly basis and serve youth ages 6-18 in group, foster, and adoptive homes. They serve to build relationships and create a support system. During our time with them, we provide a meal, play games and share a devotional. We also teach critical life skills tailored to the needs of each group, so youth will be prepared for independence as they age out of the system.

3. Academic Support

This is an option for caring adults in our community who have strengths in various subject matters to come alongside our youth who are struggling academically. This is a minimum of a 6-month commitment from our Mentors. Our hope is that by exposure to this type of intentional relationship, there will be a personal relationship established organically; thus, creating a possibility for a long-term mentorship.

4. Transitional Support

This is an option for those who want to help our youth in foster care to reach goals, obtain specialized training, gain life skills, focus on career development and future planning. This is a wonderful opportunity to support our pre-teens and teens as they are at a higher risk for “aging out” of the system. This is a minimum of a 1-year commitment from our Mentors. Our hope is to bridge the gaps through exposure to resources, personal contacts in the community, guidance for further education and support through their transition into society.

5. Pen-Pal

This is an option we provide for those where distance is an issue. This is an informal connection, meaning that Waymark simply initiates the contact. Once the connection is confirmed, Waymark provides training resources per request, assisting with any future “re-connection” if necessary. Our hope is that by offering this program, the connection made at Royal Family KIDS Camp or Journey Weekends would continue throughout the year and potentially lead to a deeper commitment if the situation changes and the opportunity presents itself. There is no timeline requirement for this mentoring option.