What is a Mentor
The volunteer mentors who serve our Veterans are the most vital part of the NWAVTCMP. Without you, we would not be able to serve our clients as effectively and they would not be as likely to see the results that they do.
Military service creates a bond that is not equaled anywhere else. Veterans, even when they served in different branches of the military, share a bond that is stronger than most and continues beyond the years of service.
As a mentor, your responsibility is to be your mentee’s coach, a guide, a role model, advocate, and a support as they progress through the court process. This will include listening to the concerns of the Veteran and making general suggestions, assisting the veteran to determine what their needs are, and acting as a support for the veteran at a time when they may feel alone in a way that only another veteran can understand. You will also help your mentee accomplish their short and long-term goals.
We know your time is valuable and you need to know what you’re committing to. That’s why we’ve outlined the mentor duties, as well as what we are looking for in a mentor. We have these guidelines because we want the mentor/mentee relationship to be a life-affirming, effective relationship that is a positive experience for all involved.
That said, know that it won’t always be easy! Mentoring fellow Veterans who are struggling is rewarding, but difficult work. You are being called to serve your fellow service members in a way you may not have ever served before.
Engage, Encourage & Empower
Send reports (on Mentor Report Form) as required to the VTC Liaison
Participate in and lead mentoring sessions with Veterans when assigned by the Judge
Be supportive and understanding of the difficulties Veterans face
Assist the Veterans as much as possible to resolve their concerns around the court procedures as well as interactions with the Veteran’s Administration system
Be supportive and helpful to the other mentors within the program
Attend court sessions when requested
Like any job or volunteer position, mentors have requirements they must meet to be eligible for the task.
Mentor Requirements:
Be a Veteran of one of the branches of the United States Military, including the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, or their corresponding Reserve or Guard branches
Adhere to all program policies and procedure, values and ethics
Commit to program participation for a minimum of six months
Serve 1-2 hours per week and attend court 1-2 times per month during business hours
Complete the required training procedures
Participate in additional trainings throughout time of service
No past criminal record of sex and/or domestic abuse charges
Reliability, Honesty, and Commitment
Access to good transportation
Internet access and basic computer skills
Attend 7 out of 12 continuing education seminars during the year.
What else do we look for in a mentor? Here are some of the desirable qualities we look for:
Willing listener
Encouraging and supportive
Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
Guide, not a Director
Familiar with the VA system
Does this sound like you? Do you want to serve your fellow veterans? Contact us to discuss getting started as a VTC Mentor. You will be required to:
Let us know you are interested
Come and observe in the courtroom
Fill out an application
Fill out an Arkansas State Police Background Check
Pay $60 to cover shirt, background check and training binder
Attend mentor training.