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.