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AACY Mentor A Cargiving Youth

AACY Caregiving Youth Project Mentor Program

Thank you for your interest in mentoring with the American Association of Caregiving Youth (AACY). Our Mentor Program connects caring adults with middle and high school students in Palm Beach County through the AACY Caregiving Youth Project. These students balance school while also providing care for a chronically ill, injured, disabled, or aging family member. Mentors provide encouragement, support, and guidance that can make a lasting difference in their lives.

What’s involved

The program is a one-year commitment. Mentors usually spend about 4 - 6 hours each month, with plenty of flexibility to make it work for both you and your student. This usually involves at least one in-person meeting, along with regular check-ins by phone, text, or video to stay connected and supportive. To make it even easier, AACY organizes mentor–mentee activities and events that give you opportunities to connect, have fun, and build your relationship.

First step

Start by filling out the Mentor Interest form (this form).

Next steps after applying

  • Interview Call (30 + minutes): A conversation to learn more about you and answer your questions.
  • Background Screening: As required by Florida law for all adults working with youth, mentors complete a Level 2 background check. This helps ensure a safe and supportive environment, and results remain confidential. Proof of current TSA PreCheck or Global Entry may also be accepted.
  • Virtual Training (1 hour): Orientation on AACY policies and best practices.
  • Match Call (20 minutes): You’ll meet your mentee, their parent, and their Family Specialist before getting started.
  • Additional Information: Before final acceptance, all mentors provide transportation and safety details, an emergency contact, and sign agreements on confidentiality, photo/media use, and commitment to AACY guidelines.

Once matched, the goal is to work together to build a supportive relationship, helping your mentee balance school and caregiving while offering moments of respite, fun, and unique experiences."

For more information about AACY and volunteer opportunities, contact James Sturges, Volunteer Manager, at james@aacy.org or visit www.aacy.org/volunteer.

MENTOR APPLICATION FORM

Please complete this form to begin the process of becoming a mentor with the AACY Caregiving Youth Project. Not all fields are required, but filling out the entire form will help us get to know you better and make the best mentor–mentee match.
Mentors Must Be 21 or Older
If you are under the age of 21, we’d still love your help! Please fill out our Volunteer Interest Form instead.
Full Name
Date of Birth
Some school partners require this for screening.
(We ask this information to help us make the best mentor-mentee match.)
Preferred Communication Method
Address

VOLUNTEER/CAREGIVING EXPERIENCE

You do not need prior experience to be a mentor. This section simply helps us understand your background.
Please list any organizations and your role. Organization | Role/Capacity | Dates
If you have ever provided care for a family member, friend, or neighbor, please describe briefly. We’d love to hear your story.

WORK, SCHOOL, OR PAST EXPERIENCE

Please list your current employer or school and your position/title (if applicable).
If you have a LinkedIn profile and would like to share it, please include the link. This helps us learn more about your background for matching purposes.

GENERAL AVAILABILITY & LOCATION

Please share your city or area within Palm Beach County. Mentor meetings typically take place after school or on weekends, so this helps us match you with a mentee nearby.
Best area for you to mentor in Palm Beach County
Which age group would you most like to mentor?

SKILLS AND INTERESTS

Languages Spoken
Please list any licenses, certifications, or professional training that could support you as a mentor. Examples: CPR/First Aid, teaching credentials, coaching, or workshops and specialized training.
Interests
Check any topics you enjoy. This helps us match you well.
Feel free to share anything else that might help us get to know you better.
How did you hear about the AACY Caregiving Youth Project Mentoring Program?
How did you hear about the AACY Mentor Program? Please check all that apply.

THANK YOU!

We’re so grateful that you’ve taken the time to complete the AACY Caregiving Youth Project Mentor Application. By filling out this form, you are taking the first step in making a meaningful difference for a middle or high school student who is caring for a family member.

Your application helps us learn more about you so we can create the best possible mentor–mentee match. Once you submit, we’ll follow up with next steps, including a short interview call, background screening, training, and your official match.

Thank you for your willingness to share your time, energy, and care with the youth we serve. Together, we can make sure no Caregiving Youth feels alone.