Help us create a safe, just community for all. 

PAATH to Success Mentor Program is a 15-month program designed to reduce anti-social behaviors and risk factors in youth while building in protective factors that decrease a child’s risk of participating in or becoming a victim to community violence and trauma. The program encourages healthy relationships while developing life and social skills.

This fun and enriching program has a cross-cultural mindset, while increasing social-emotional skills in our youth participants! Youth are matched with an adult volunteer mentor (21 years of age or older) who will act as a positive role model, confidant, friend, and a guide. Mentees enrolled in the program participate in activities such as attending a community event, career planning, playing a sport, or touring a local museum. 

According to the National Survey of Children Exposed to Violence, 60% of surveyed children were exposed to violence, crime, or abuse in their home, schools, or communities. Our goal is to address root causes of community violence by offering youth safe, healthy support systems. 

Why is the PAATH to Success program different for youth? 

The PAATH to Success is different from other mentor programs, because PAATH to Success mentors accept youth just as they are. Mentors acknowledge our mentees strengths and help them figure out how to build upon that. Mentors volunteer their time with young people because they realize that everyone needs a helping hand at times while on their adventure through life. PAATH to Success mentors hang out with youth because they want to, not because they feel they have to. 

If you know a youth, ages 12-17, who would benefit from the PAATH to Success Mentor Program, call or email today! If you are interested in learning more, contact a representative by calling 1-800-654-1211 or email mentoring@ywcahbg.org.

What can I expect as a mentor?

Our mentors provide role modeling, positive guidance, an example of healthy community engagement, and life skills groups and resources. Our mentors are carefully screened, interviewed, and pass background checks. Orientation and training is provided, and continued support is offered throughout the 15-month duration of mentorship. All mentors participate in trauma informed and strength-based training initiatives. 

The risk factors for a youth participating in the program may include, violence in the home or neighborhood, truancy, foster care or homelessness, LGBTQ+, or substance abuse. The PAATH to Success' Mentor Program leads to healthier and enhanced self esteem and confidence, stronger relationships with parents, teachers and peers, increased graduation and college enrollment rates and decreased drug and alcohol use.

Ready to make a difference? Mentor applications can be found here.

If you know a youth, ages 12-17, who would benefit from the PAATH to Success Mentor Program, call or email today!

If you are interested in learning more, contact a representative by calling 1-800-654-1211 or email mentoring@ywcahbg.org.