A Community of Lifelong Learners

Forge’s mentoring community is a network of lifelong learners. We believe that mentorship benefits everyone involved, creating a ripple effect of positive change.

Real Mentors for Real Life

At Forge Youth Mentoring, we understand that nobody’s life is perfect. Our mentors are everyday people who have faced challenges, learned from them, and want to pass on their wisdom to the next generation.

You Already Have What it Takes

We are confident that you have what it takes to be a great mentor. With some support from FORGE and experience, we know you will make a huge impact.

Tim Flaten, A FORGE Mentor, smiling in a park.

Sharing Experiences, Not Perfection

Our mentors are individuals who have walked different paths, faced hurdles, and grown stronger. They’re here to share their unique journeys, struggles, and triumphs to inspire and guide our mentees.

Mentoring: A Two-Way Street

We desire that because of your willingness to serve and care for youth in our community, you would be blessed and empowered. Our mentors report that they are able to learn and grow just as much as their mentees.

Isiah and Christian, a mentor match, smiling at the camera together while getting milkshakes.

We Fill the Gaps

We truly believe that you have what it takes to be an incredible mentor. FORGE also equips you with trainings, resources, ideas, activities, and even a community of other mentors with a similar heart for youth that you have.

How to Be a Mentor:

Fill out an application using the button below and schedule a get-to-know-you interview.

Attend an info meeting and meet with a Forge Ambassador to discuss interests and experiences.

Receive training and get matched with a mentee with similar interests and experiences as you.

Meet with your new friend each week for an hour for at least a year.

Change a life forever. Who knows, maybe yours will be changed too!

Training

We understand that nobody’s life is perfect, but our mentors are everyday people who have faced challenges, learned from them, and want to pass on their wisdom to the next generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Mentor do?

Mentors meet once a week with their mentee for a minimum of an hour, participating in activities of your choice. Hobbies, sports, crafts, errands, meals, walks… you name it!

How do I get matched and who with?

After successful completion of the application process, we look at kids with common interests, needs that match your strengths and experiences, and your requested age range. At that point, we email you a little information about the young person that our team believes is the best fit, and we wait for your approval. If you don’t agree, no problem. We’ll send you a second option.

Am I safe? Am I insured?

Yes, because of our stringent intake process of both mentor and mentee, we have full confidence in the quality of each participant. Our match behavior and activity guidelines provide a clear and safe path for your mentor friendship, while our ongoing match support offers accountability, perspective from all participants (mentee, mentee parent/guardian, and mentor), and coaching with possible redirection. Forge Youth Mentoring is fully insured, as are the mentors and volunteers participating in our program, as they properly follow our clear guidelines and standards.

Do I have what it takes? What if I’m not sure I can do it?

Yes, if you’re taking the time to read this and God seems to be laying it on your heart, we believe that you have what it takes. Kids are looking for caring and genuine adults, not some super guru or perfect adult. They want someone who will be there for them and offer patience. We all have doubts, but consider the alternative for the kids who lack positive and caring adults. We’d love to have you join us for a mentor INFO Meeting where you can find out more and talk with our team members. Feel free to call us anytime.

Still Have Questions❓

Reach out to one of our program directors to learn more about how you can make a difference by being a youth mentor with FORGE.