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Adams County Program
Adams County boys and girls, 8-12 years old, coming from
homes where substance abuse is, or has been present, are
served through this program. Youth are matched with an
adult volunteer and also attend Children of Substance
Abusers (COSA) support groups. These groups focus on
learning to make positive choices.
Adolescent Females
Program
This program serves 9-14
year-old females in Denver. In addition to being
matched with an adult volunteer mentor, girls in this
program meet weekly to work on life-skills training,
with a strong focus on conflict resolution, sexuality,
and non-traditional careers. Components include: parent
in-service trainings, community service projects,
cultural modeling, and school success/bonding.
Diversion/Prevention
Program
Some of the youth in this program have had involvement
with the juvenile justice system. In August 2004, the
program expanded to serve youth who have a parent who is
currently, or has recently been, incarcerated. This
program serves Denver County boys and girls ages 8-17.
All are matched with an adult volunteer mentor and
receive extensive support services.
Douglas County Program
more info
In the spring of 2001,
the program was founded after a feasibility study
revealed the need for mentoring program services in
Douglas County. Boys and girls ages 8-17 are accepted
upon referral by the schools, juvenile diversion, or
other human service agencies. An Advisory Board of
concerned Douglas County residents assists with program
oversight and sustainability.
GRASP
(Gang Rescue and Support Project) GRASP website
GRASP meets weekly to support youth trying to stay out
of the gang life-style. Former gang members who have
committed themselves to helping others avoid gang
involvement guide the program. Key elements include
weekly support group meetings based upon cognitive skill building, and the
Stages of Change model. GRASP leaders also give
community presentations about youth violence.
Northeast Denver
Tutoring Program
Designed to serve Northeast Denver boys and girls ages
9-14, this program offers academic tutoring on a weekly
basis. Adult volunteers serve as tutors who meet with
the students once a week during the school year to work
on math, reading, and homework skills. Enrichment
activities are offered in life skills building, cultural
modeling, school success, and career awareness.
Youth Mentoring Collaborative
Program
The
Youth Mentoring Collaborative Program serves youth and
their siblings who are TANF (Temporary Aid To Needy
Families) eligible or are experiencing
homelessness. The Collaborative, formed by fifteen
Denver area mentoring organizations and eight resource
partners, offers a wide range of support and resources
to families and to the mentors who volunteer to impact
the lives of the youth involved. Youth in the program
also benefit from participation in monthly activities,
life skills trainings and special events.
Dreamcatchers
Youth referred to Metro Denver Partners see an average
waiting period of nine months before they are matched
with an adult volunteer. The reason is simple - we
always have more youth than volunteers. While these kids
are waiting, we place them into the program that will
best address their needs. We refer to these waiting kids
as Dreamcatchers. They participate in monthly
outings, such as going to the movies, sporting events,
and eating out. These activities help us to get to know
these youth and their families well, and to build a
relationship of trust that creates a positive foundation
for the introduction of a Senior Partner (mentor).
Staff also provide ongoing contact and support to these
waiting youth and their families. |
