TRUE Mentors does not begin looking into Match options until all of the paperwork, interviews, and background checks required have been completed by all parties. Once finished, our team spends significant time ensuring that our Mentor and Mentee matches incorporate both the requested characteristics (gender, historical, and interest factors from both guardians, mentees, and volunteers). This can take 3 or more months. In the meantime, unmatched mentees and mentors are welcome to participate in all TRUE Mentors Programs and activities.  **Note: matches that are naturally formed through Homework Helpers and Enrichment Clubs tend to be aligned faster than matches formed outside of these programs.

No, while guardians, mentees, and volunteers may all request that they be matched with a particular gender, identity, or age group, these are not required for potential matches, and a number of non-gender matches have been highly successful. Moreover, TRUE Mentors is a dedicated Safe Space and respects and supports our LGBTQ+ participants and volunteers. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.  Am I required to attend TRUE Mentors activities and events with my mentee?  No, as long as you are maintaining at least eight hours of contact with your mentor/mentee, then you do not have to participate in any TRUE Mentors activities or events. These are here to support matches by offering available, diverse things to do. Maintaining communication with staff is imperative if you are not participating in our other programs.

No, a mentee is any youth that needs a TRUE companionship and support in their life. While some of our participants have documented disabilities and special needs, not all of them do. We will always communicate with all parties regarding any additional considerations for a participant before aligning a potential match.