Professional Mentor

Friends of the Children • Chicago, IL

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Friends of the Children is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating generational change by supporting youth through relationships with professional Mentors. The organization provides children facing the greatest obstacles with a paid, full-time professional Mentor, referred to as a "Friend," from kindergarten through high school graduation (12+ years). This is a professional position that includes training, supervision, accountability, and offers the opportunity to make a real impact. The role involves working with eight children, providing consistent, one-on-one time weekly, building long-term, trusting relationships with the children and their families, and helping each child develop essential life skills such as managing emotions, navigating school and relationships, and building self-confidence.

Requirements

• Associate degree, Bachelor's degree preferred; Alternatively, at least seven years’ progressive experience working with children and families will be considered in lieu of a college degree.
• At least two years of experience working or volunteering with children.
• Reliable personal vehicle, valid driver’s license, and proof of adequate automobile insurance coverage.
• Ability to transport youth in a personal vehicle for mentoring activities within approximately 25 miles of the Friends Chicago office.
• Successful completion of a comprehensive background check, including criminal history, child abuse registry checks, and driving record review.
• Maintain current First Aid and CPR certification.
• Demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth, including actively engaging in training and feedback.
• Prepared to make a minimum three-year commitment, recognizing that consistency and long-term relationships are central to our mentoring model.
• Works effectively both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Exhibits strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize responsibilities effectively.
• Communicates clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and use sound judgment in dynamic situations.
• Maintains a positive attitude, resilience, and a sense of humor, with the ability to remain grounded in challenging circumstances.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with children in under-resourced communities is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide a minimum of four hours per week of individualized mentorship to each assigned youth (caseload of eight), primarily through one-on-one engagement during and outside of school hours.
• Establish and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with families; communicate regularly with parents and caregivers to support student growth and well-being.
• Collaborate with teachers, school personnel, and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to each child’s academic and personal success.
• Assess individual strengths and areas for growth; set measurable, strengths-based goals with each child and provide consistent guidance toward goal achievement.
• Plan and facilitate enrichment activities and experiential learning opportunities that foster skill development, confidence, and exploration of interests.
• Maintain accurate documentation of youth engagement and progress.
• Participate in weekly team meetings, professional development trainings, and staff events.
• Safely transport youth to and from program-related activities using a personal vehicle, in compliance with organizational safety guidelines.

Benefits

• health insurance (medical/dental/vision)
• life insurance
• 3 weeks of paid vacation
• 12 days of paid sick time per year
• 401K Program with employer matching up to 4% after the initial 90 days of employment.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree