MY BROTHER'S KEEPER
Mentorship, Fellowship & Scholarship
Since: 1970
Know Your Place
The initial purpose of the Gents was to serve as a source of support for young men of culture in pursuit of an education, while promoting brotherhood, cultural appreciation and unity. The Fraternity prides itself on building the leaders of tomorrow. The Fraternity brothers will provide the guidance and leadership for our male youth, community and nation.
What is a Gents Fraternity Mentor?
A mentor is someone who, along with parents, provides young people with support, counsel, friendship, reinforcement, and constructive example. Mentors are good listeners, people who care, people who want to help young people bring out the strengths that are already there.
The Fraternity Mentoring can take place in various settings. School-based Fraternity Mentors and mentees meet on school grounds.
The Fraternity Mentors and mentees work on school-work together or play games, talk, or work on special projects. The Fraternity Mentors must be screened according to the school’s policies and sign-in when they arrive. Site-based Mentors and mentees meet at a set location such as a church, synagogue, mosque, etc., a community or neighborhood center, YMCA, or Boys & Girls Club.
The Fraternity Mentors and mentees may do homework together, read, play games, make projects, or play sports if the facility accommodates.
The Fraternity Mentors and mentees receive supervision from program staff. Mentors must be screened according to the agency’s policies.
Community-based Mentors and mentees meet according to their own schedules and at locations that the pair decides. Mentors may be responsible for transporting mentees. Activities may include trips to the park, museums, sporting events, libraries, special events, concerts, or spending time at the mentor’s house.
Mentors receive support from program staff and must be screened according to the agency’s policies. Workplace - or University-based Fraternity Mentors and mentees in this setting are often adult peers. In the workplace, mentors provide professional support and guidance to a younger colleague. In the university, mentors may provide guidance and advice on college success skills, time management, connecting with the school, or preparing for graduate studies. Gents Mentors will be screened, depending on the policies of the program for the protection of our youth.
How do I Become a Fraternity Mentor?
Think about how you want to work with a young person.
Consider the types of activities that interest you, whether it is helping youth develop a specific skill, pursue an interest, or learn about a subject, or just getting to know them and being a supportive adult.
Consider the age or life experiences of the youth you want to work with. There are mentoring opportunities for elementary, middle and high school youth as well as college students, community college students, and young people in juvenile detention centers, foster care, or alternative schools.
Be realistic about the amount of time you have to meet with a mentee, whether it is once a week or once or twice a month. Be realistic about the responsibilities involved with committing to mentor a young person. Discuss the potential commitment with family members, partners, children and friends.
