How Y-NOW Mentoring Works
The Y-NOW Mentoring Program begins with a 3-day camp retreat designed to help youth take a look at their lives and attempt to identify what is getting in the way of their success. They are asked to evaluate their experiences, choices and behavior and are then given the encouragement, confidence and guidance they need to realize their full potential.
The retreat is followed by ten months of one-on-one mentoring with a thoroughly screened and trained adult who commits to one phone call and one face-to-face meeting each week. In addition, structured group meetings are held twice a month along with special activities throughout the year, which include a trip to a halfway house, a community service project, family days, and a graduation ceremony.
Ongoing case management ensures that the full complement of needs of the youth, family and mentor are addressed — even after the program is completed
Refer a Teen
Please use this short form to refer youth that you believe would benefit from our program. You will be asked to provide some basic information about the youth, the caregiver's contact information, and any knowledge about the parent(s) you may have.
Become a Mentor
Volunteers are needed to support every area of the Y-NOW Program, however, we have a heightened need for volunteers to serve as mentors who will listen and provide encouragement, support, and stability.
If you are interested in serving as a Y-NOW mentor, please email ynowvolunteers@ymcalouisville.org or complete an online volunteer interest form.
All positions require completing a volunteer application, background check, orientation, and agreeing to the YMCA Safe Place Services’ Volunteer Code of Conduct. Training and ongoing support is provided to all volunteers. No experience needed.
