Applications are now open for the Youth Advocates for Mentoring (YAM) Program 2019 for Young Leaders in the US. Through the Youth Advocates for Mentoring (YAM), program MENTOR will train 12 young leaders on advocacy. Also, policy, and grassroots organizing skills in order to create positive change in their communities and nation.

MENTOR believes that young people must be at the forefront of addressing systemic issues.  Also,  that this comprehensive training program will provide young people the real-life skills they need to communicate with elected officials, address issues in their communities, empower their peers into action and advocate for the power of mentoring.

Benefits

• Participate in a 10-month program consisting of a combination of in-person convenings and virtual pieces of training
  • In-person convenings include trips to Washington, D.C. in October 2019 and July 2020 (Travel, hotel accommodations, transportation, and meals provided by MENTOR)
  • Each month participants will participate in a virtual training
• A $1,000 stipend for successfully participating in the program
• Access to advocacy professionals who will serve as mentors during a monthly check-in
• Collaborative learning and leadership opportunities

Eligibility

• Applicants must reside in the following states: Alabama, California, Illinois, Kentucky, New York, or Virginia
• Likewise, Applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 24 years old when they apply for the program (Applicants must be 16 when the program commences in October 2019. Applicants who will turn 25 years old during the program’s run are welcome to apply as well.)
• Applicants below 18 years of age, must have a parent/guardian confirm their application. Further participation in the program and one parent/guardian or one parent/guardian approved adult must attend both events in Washington, D.C. (Travel, hotel accommodations, and transportation provided for one parent/guardian or one parent/guardian approved adult by MENTOR)
• Applicants must be currently participating in a mentoring program, in a mentoring program in the past or have experienced a meaningful informal mentor or role model (teacher, coach, family member, faith leader, etc.)
• Must have a letter of support from a non-family member regarding their relationship to applicant, applicant’s qualifications, specific successes, and why participating in this program might help the applicant accomplish their goals.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated using the following criteria:

• Passion for mentoring: Mentoring relationships, mentoring programs and youth empowerment
• Eagerness to learn: Applicant is eager to learn and build their advocacy, policy, personal, and also, professional skills.
• Further, Willing to Address Advocacy and Policy Issues: Applicant is eager to understand the political process and how individuals and organizations can make positive impacts on elected officials and systemic issues
• Leadership: Applicant is interested in becoming or is currently a leader in their community, school, workplace or other spaces.