Part Time Youth Mentor 1:1

Position Overview

Centers for New Horizons is seeking Part-Time Youth Mentors to support a Department of Family and Support Services-funded, community-based mentoring program serving youth ages 10–21 in Altgeld Gardens (Far South Side) and Bronzeville (Near South Side).

Essential Functions

• Build consistent 1:1 mentoring relationships
• Provide individual mentoring sessions at least 2 times per month (45120 minutes each)
• Build trusting, supportive relationships that center youth voice, choice, and interests
• Serve as a consistent, reliable adult presence in each participant’s life
• Support Youth Growth & Development
• Focus on strengths, potential, and personal growth rather than deficits
• Help youth build confidence, decisionmaking skills, and a sense of belonging
• Support goalsetting, life skills development, and exposure to new opportunities
• Facilitate Engagement & Enrichment
• Participate in quarterly group activities focused on wellness, academics/career, life skills, and cultural enrichment
• Create engaging, youthcentered experiences that foster connection and peer support
• Promote Safety & Well-Being
• Maintain a safe, structured, and inclusive environment for all participants
• Maintain Communication & Documentation
• Track attendance, mentoring sessions, and participant engagement
• Document interactions and progress in accordance with program requirements
• Communicate regularly with program staff regarding participant updates and needs
• Collaborate with Program Team
• Participate in trainings and ongoing coaching (including youth development, deescalation, and trauma-informed practices)
• Work closely with staff to ensure strong mentormentee matches and address challenges if needed

What You Bring

• Experience working with youth or young adults (ages 10-21 preferred)
• Background in mentoring, education, social services, or community-based programs is a plus
• Familiarity with or connection to South Side communities strongly preferred
• Strong relationshipbuilding skills with the ability to connect authentically with youth
• Ability to engage youth in both one-on-one and group settings
• Strong communication, active listening, and conflict resolution skills
• Ability to maintain boundaries while building trust
• Patient, empathetic, and dependable
• Consistent and committed to showing up for youth
• Flexible, adaptable, and solutions-oriented
• Passionate about equity, youth development, and community impact