Youth Assisting Youth (Volunteer)

Youth Assisting Youth grows the leaders of tomorrow through peer mentorship of at-risk and newcomer youth. For over 44 years, it has paired volunteer young adult mentors aged 16-29, with youth ages 6-15 to engage in activities to develop mind, body, character, and leadership skills. Our non-profit connects volunteers to meaningful mentorship experiences that profoundly impact the most vulnerable youth and their families in communities across Toronto and York Region areas.

Peer Mentorship Program Volunteer Position

Our Peer Mentorship program would be suitable for anyone who is interested in giving back to the community and provides the opportunity to be a positive role model in a child's life. As a Peer Mentor, you will spend time with the mentee consistently (10 hours per month - distributed weekly), Go on outings together (i.e. walk in the park, play sports, go to the movies, read at the library, socialize at a cafe, arts & crafts activities at home, etc.), and act as a positive role model to help the youth navigate their circumstances. Experience directly correlates to social work, community studies, & psychology fields.

The criteria to be a Volunteer Mentor:

• Aged 16-29
• Able to commit 10 hours a month of in-person mentoring for a year
• Complete our online training sessions and submit the required documentation
• Complete a Vulnerable Sector Check (we will reimburse the cost)

Benefits of Becoming a Volunteer Mentor:

• We offer a certificate of completion and reference letter to mentors who complete the matching period
• Free tickets to YAY curated events, and sometimes we have tickets to events around the city (Museums, movies, sports games, etc.)
• Mentors receive training on youth mental health to help their mentee overcome their diagnosis and reduce their level of difficulty.
• Mentors are trained to understand their mentee’s unique way of learning and help them succeed in school.

Please note: This is a completely voluntary position.