Cobb Mentoring Matters Q&A
Our vision is to empower our youth to recognize, realize then maximize their personal potential by providing access to nurturing supportive relationships and community involvement to become intentional, positive and productive community leaders in Cobb County and worldwide
Our mission is to eliminate barriers that prevent youth access to mentors who will encourage their creativity and passions to flourish, set up academic goals and balance and allow them to be excellent and determined on their journey of lifelong learning.
What is Cobb Mentoring Matters (CMM)?
Cobb Mentoring Matters is a school-based mentoring program. Our purpose is matching CCSD students ages 10 to 18 to with volunteers from our diverse community that have answered the call to pour into and support our youth by sharing their life experiences and wisdom through conversation, setting goals and varied forms of support nestled in grace to with our mentoring program. In other words, they provide consistency.
What is a mentor?
A mentor is a carefully selected and screened individual who is committed to encourage, provide support, guidance, and an experienced point of view to mentee.
Who are the mentors?
CMM mentors are members of our community: current and retired teachers, business owners, faith-based organization members and leaders, anyone with a heart to serve and advocate for our youth and young adults.
How does one become a mentor?
First, mentors must complete an online application complete with references.
Next, each mentor is interviewed by our Mentoring Coordinator (MC).
Each mentor is screened and submits to a background check.
Mentors attend six to eight hours of training on a variety of subject matter. Mentor training is thorough covering a variety of protocols and topics via in-house sessions as well as external programs and services.
If you or someone you know would like to join our wonderful mentoring team, please share this link, https://www.cobbk12.org/page/60871/cobb-mentoring-matters
What happens during the mentoring session?
The mentee and mentor will have many conversations during their sessions. During their meetings, they may set educational and/or career goals, discuss student challenges and concerns, and explore some of the mentee’s interests.
When and where will mentoring sessions take place?
Cobb Mentoring Matters is a school-based program. So, the mentee and mentor sessions will take place on school campuses at least once a week, for 45-60 minutes. We will do our best to schedule sessions at the most optimal time for the mentor and mentee. So, the sessions may take place prior to school starting, during lunch periods, specials or even after school in ASP.
Will I get to meet my student’s mentor?
Yes. You and your student will be introduced to your mentor during a scheduled Meet & Greet. These meetings may take place in-person or virtual.
Why schedule a Meet & Greet?
This meeting is purposeful in that you, your student and mentor an opportunity to meet and interview another. You can ask various and specific questions that will help you all decide if you’d like to be matched.
If everyone decides the match should take place, a match agreement is signed, and contact information is exchanged.
How long do mentoring matches last?
Matches are in place for a minimum of one year. Keep in mind, a trusting relationship is being established. The mentoring match may extend well beyond the one-year anniversary. In fact, most mentor relationships evolve into friendships that continue indefinitely.
Is there a cost to participate in the Cobb Mentoring Matters Program?
No, there is no cost to participate the Cobb Mentoring Matters mentoring program. However, if you and your student decide to join or participate in one of our community partner’s mentoring program, nominal operating fees may apply.
How do I request a mentor?
To request a mentor, contact your School Social Worker, School Counselor or email mentoringcoordinator@cobbk12.org
What’s next?
Parents/guardians are contacted by the Mentoring Coordinator. This helps the MC make the best possible match.