Youth Assisting Youth harnesses the power of friendship to create meaningful peer mentoring experiences that change lives across the City of Toronto and York Region.
Being a mentor doesn’t just change your mentee’s life – it transforms yours too. The bond you’ll build through shared experiences creates a lasting symbol of the incredible social impact you’ve achieved together. The skills, experience and connections that you gain will also strengthen your resume, transfer to the workplace and strengthen your leadership abilities.
Sound like something you want to be part of? Here’s what it takes to become a Youth Assisting Youth mentor:
- Live in Toronto or York Region
- Be between 16-29 years old
- Have 10 hours per month to mentor weekly for 1 year
If you meet those requirements, apply now to start empowering at-risk or newcomer youth in your local community! As a mentor, you’ll get comprehensive training, 24/7 emergency support and access to free activities to enjoy with your mentee. Plus, you’ll gain critical thinking skills, leadership abilities and unlock scholarship opportunities.
What are some of the benefits of youth volunteering ?
- Comprehensive Training, including Learning Disabilities + Youth Mental Health Training
- 24 hr Emergency Support Hotline
- Free activities for you & your mentee. Blue Jays games to movie premieres!
- Gain Leadership Abilities & Critical Thinking Skills
- Scholarship Opportunities, Career Perks and References
Don’t just take our word for it – read inspirational stories from real mentors and watch a video showing the rewards mentorship brings to both mentees and mentors.
“My mentee lives right in my neighbourhood. Realizing a kid so close to home needs me hit hard – I’m making a real difference.”
Jim H. YAY Mentor
Our Child & Youth Mentees
YAY carefully matches mentors with kids ages 6-15 who face behavioral, social, emotional and cultural challenges. Many mentees cope with mental health issues or learning disabilities too. As their trusted friend and role model, you’ll provide crucial consistent support.
Your Commitment
We ask for a minimum 1-year commitment, meeting your mentee on a weekly basis for at least 10 hours per month. Many matches continue beyond 1 year if desired.
Extensive Training & Support
You’ll receive in-depth training covering positive role modeling, mentoring 101, child behavior management, anti-discrimination, culture & diversity, child abuse awareness, youth mental health and youth learning disabilities. Social workers provide ongoing coaching and 24/7 emergency support.
Make Your Impact
Over 400 kids urgently need a mentor right now. Are you ready to change a life while transforming your own? Apply today to start your mentoring journey!
