We are looking for mentors to make a difference in the lives of youth that are trying to change their own lives. You can be the key that changes a life!

You may ask yourself, why is mentoring so important? Don’t many of our youth have some type of positive role model in their lives? The answer is no – a lot of our youth lack a positive role model and need someone to provide them with stability, acceptance, guidance, and a sense of belonging and family.

Sometimes all it takes is the opportunity to become involved in a positive alternative activity, such as afterschool programs through community-based or faith-based organizations, or help with homework. But oftentimes, it’s the consistent presence of a caring adult that makes a real difference in their lives.

There is a wide range of personal, family, and community factors that contribute to juvenile delinquency and gang involvement. But a positive role model can provide them with stability, acceptance, guidance, and a sense of belonging and family. Many gang members state that one of the key factors that contributed to their joining a gang was the feeling of acceptance and family that the gang afforded them. As a mentor, you can help these young people learn to make better choices and successfully transition to adulthood.

If you are interested in being a mentor for the Gang Reduction and Intervention Program, administered through the Office of the Attorney General, please email Thea Boland at dboland@oag.state.va.us for an application.

Have you also considered posting this request in the Volunteer section of our website? Feel free to call me if you have questions.

Ryan Smartt
Director, ConnectRichmond
827-2002