Your Role as a Mentor
At Charting Careers, mentors are champions, guides, and trusted allies to youth discovering their voice and potential. With just one hour a week, you can make a lasting impact by building a consistent, meaningful relationship with a middle or high school student in Annapolis. Mentors offer encouragement, share life experiences, help scholars navigate challenges, and celebrate their goals. You don’t need special skills—just compassion, commitment, and the belief that all young people deserve someone in their corner.
Mentor Requirements
We’re looking for caring adults who can commit to walking alongside a young person on their journey.
Mentors must:
Be at least 21 years old
Commit to at least one year (with the hope of continuing longer)
Live within commuting distance of Annapolis, MD
Have reliable transportation and auto insurance
Adhere to program policies and procedures
Fulfill the time commitment and uphold the core areas of the mentor role
Attend required mentor trainings
Stay in regular communication with staff and welcome feedback to support your match
Why Mentor? What You’ll Gain
Mentors often say they get just as much out of the experience as they give. Benefits include:
Personal fulfillment through meaningful contribution
Connection to a vibrant, mission-driven community of volunteers
Satisfaction in helping a young person grow and thrive
Exposure to new perspectives and cultures
Skill development in communication, empathy, and leadership
Invitations to mentor-mentee group events and ongoing learning opportunities
How to Get Started
1. Learn: Attend a Mentor & Volunteer Orientation to explore ways to get involved.
2. Apply: Fill out our mentor application form.
3. Interview: Meet with our Mentor & Volunteer Coordinator to learn more about your interests and experience.
4. Screening: Complete our background process:
Personal reference check
Charting Careers background check
Driving record check
Anne Arundel County Public Schools (AACPS) fingerprinting
5. Train:Attend a required mentor training session and sign your Mentor Agreement.
6. Match: Be introduced to your mentee at your first match meeting—and begin your mentoring journey!
Charting Careers prohibits discrimination in its programs, and in employment, on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, or disability.