What is Grizzlies TEAM Mentoring?
Thinking about mentoring…but you would prefer to mentor with two other adults?
In January 2011, the Grizzlies Foundation launched TEAM Mentoring, a school-based mentoring program that matches 3 volunteer mentors with 9 students to form one TEAM. Students and mentors participate in various activities that correspond with the chosen theme for that week. Each mentoring session helps mentors and students to develop skills in team-building, leadership, personal responsibility, civic engagement, cultural awareness, and health & wellness while fostering relationships among each other.
Grizzlies TEAM Mentors commit an hour and a half a week to meet with their mentees at the respective school site. In addition to their weekly meetings, each mentor participates in a training workshop before starting the program as well as a follow-up training halfway through the first semester. These workshops provide volunteer mentors resources and guidance to enhance facilitation skills, provide feedback, and ultimately help to make the mentoring sessions more effective.
Beyond the weekly sessions, the Grizzlies Foundation has scheduled periodic events to compliment the mentoring activities. For example, each team will participate in a community service project where the students set project structure and outcomes. Both Clean Memphis and the Mid South Food Bank were partners for the Spring 2011 projects.
In addition, mentors and students are provided tickets, concessions vouchers and transportation to see the Memphis Grizzlies live in action! This opportunity will be extended to participants at least once per semester, allowing teams time “off campus” to get to know one another and cheer on the Grizzlies.
Mentors for Fall 2011 have been selected. To apply to be a TEAM Mentor for Fall 2012, fill out the Team Mentoring Form.
TEAM Mentoring Basics:
- Each team consists of 3 mentors and 9 students
- 10-month, 1 school year commitment
- Meet 1x /week for 90 minutes
- Mentors are required to submit an application, undergo background check and training before being matched.
- The Grizzlies Foundation has partnered with Power Center Academy and KIPP Memphis Collegiate School.
- Any questions? Contact us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 901.205.8326
Want to be a Grizzlies “TEAMmate?”
The Memphis Grizzlies Charitable Foundation is grateful to the individuals who serve as mentors to young people in our partner programs. These individuals devote tremendous time and energy to the well-being and social, emotional and intellectual growth of the young people they mentor.
“TEAMmates” is the Grizzlies Foundation’s initiative to stay connected to those who sign up to mentor through the Grizzlies. It’s also an effort to build a network among mentors in Memphis. We will regularly communicate with mentors, take feedback from mentors, host special educational and social events for mentors and recognize mentors’ dedication and efforts to “go above and beyond” to help young people.
Who can participate as a TEAMmate?
Any person who fills out a Grizzlies Foundation TEAMUP interest form on this website or at a Grizzlies Foundation presentation and then becomes a mentor with a Grizzlies Mentoring Alliance program may participate. In addition, any person currently mentoring with a Grizzlies Mentoring Alliance member program may opt into the program by filling out the TEAMmates application.
What is included for TEAMmates?
There are periodic social events for mentors that include, but are not limited to: happy hours at area restaurants; tickets to Grizzlies “Mentoring Nights;” opportunities to win premium seats at Grizzlies “Mentor Mondays” and “TEAM UP Tuesdays” home games; invitations to hear special guest speakers like Grizzlies coaches, players, ownership and other high-profile speakers; and passes to local attractions and restaurants.
In addition, TEAMmates will receive invitations to Grizzlies Mentoring Alliance training and educational sessions taught by experts to help mentors learn how to build better relationships with mentees.
Also, the Grizzlies Foundation will help TEAMmates host events or make presentations to recruit their friends and colleagues to be mentors. (We’ll even provide refreshments, Grizzlies items and speakers!)
Is there a deadline to enroll in TEAMmates?
There is no deadline. Join any time.
Why join TEAMmates?
Why not? TEAM UP with the Grizzlies is about being part of a team, a movement that helps kids in Memphis and offers mentors a chance to network with each other. There is no cost to join, and we provide many unique opportunities and ongoing support to make the mentoring experience even more fun and rewarding.
How to join
If you are currently mentoring with a Grizzlies Foundation program partner, please fill out this brief form.
Need 2.21
Being a mentor is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do, and it’s easy to get started! Just follow these five steps and you’ll be on your way to becoming a TEAM UP mentor.
- Complete a TEAM UP interest form to identify your availability and preferences.
- Look over the TEAM UP recommendations for the program that best fits you.
- Participate in the screening process for the program you choose.
- Attend the orientation and training session.
- Start mentoring! Enjoy ongoing support, networking, and learning opportunities for mentors!
Once you’ve chosen to become a mentor, the Grizzlies Foundation offers a variety of resources and opportunities to help you be a better mentor and to support the relationship you’re developing with your mentee:
Training Opportunities
The Memphis Mentoring Partnership offers a variety of mentor training workshops throughout the year to help you build skills and to enhance the relationship with your mentee. Check the calendar for upcoming programs.
Mentor Networking
Throughout the year, the Grizzlies Foundation hosts events and gatherings to recruit mentors and to give current mentors opportunities to discuss issues, share stories and meet one another.
TEAMmates
“TEAMmates” is the Grizzlies Foundation’s new initiative to stay connected to those who sign up to mentor through the Grizzlies. It’s also an effort to build a network among mentors in Memphis. We will regularly communicate with mentors, take feedback from mentors, host special educational and social events for mentors and recognize mentors’ dedication and efforts to “go above and beyond” to help young people.
Free Passes to Memphis-area Attractions and Events:
Memphis Grizzlies-at “Mentoring Night” games for mentors of MMP members
Brooks Museum of Art- Pay what you can, Wednesdays 10-4pm
Dixon Museum-Pay what you can, Tuesdays 10-4pm
Memphis Zoo-Free Admission Tuesdays for TN residents after 2pm
National Civil Rights Museum-Free Admission Mondays for TN residents after 3pm
Pink Palace Museum-Free Admission Tuesdays from 1-5pm
Rock n Soul Museum-Free Admission Tuesdays for TN residents after 2pm
TEAMUP E-Newsletter
Sign up for updates, information and resources for anyone interested in youth mentoring.
TEAM UP Facebook
Become a fan of TEAM UP with the Grizzlies Foundation.
TEAM UP Tweets
Get inspiration and tips on mentoring a young person.
TEAM UP Contests
Think you can win? Check back regularly to see what you can do to win BIG.
Useful Websites:
Memphis Loves Kids:
http://www.MemphisLovesKids.com
Free Days & Bargain Days at Memphis Attractions:
http://memphis.about.com/od/thingstoseeanddo/tp/dealsandsteals.htm
Arts Memphis:
Spirit of Memphis:
http://www.spiritofmemphis.org/
Downtown Memphis:
http://www.downtownmemphis.com/
Clean Memphis:
Healthy Memphis Common Table:
http://www.healthymemphis.org/
Need 2.2
Mentoring is a structured relationship between an adult and a young person aimed at developing the personal qualities and strengths of the youth.
What is a mentor?
A mentor is a caring adult friend who devotes time to a young person. Mentors can fill many roles. Yet all mentors have one thing in common: they care about helping young people achieve their potential and discover their strengths.
Mentors are not meant to replace the role of a parent, guardian or teacher. A mentor is not a disciplinarian or decision-maker for a child. Instead, a mentor offers positive role modeling and reinforcement and encourages exploration of future possibilities. A mentor is part of a team of caring adults.
A mentor’s main purpose is to help a young person define and achieve goals that will vary depending on the young person’s age. Most youth mentoring involves young people 10 to 18 years of age. Since the expectations of each child will vary, it is a flexible relationship that matches the mentor’s skills and interests with the young person’s needs.
What are the different types of mentoring?
One-on-one mentoring:
Traditional mentoring consisting of one adult to one young person. Typically, meetings should occur regularly at least four hours per month for at least one year, or nine months in a school-based program.
Group mentoring:
One adult commits to meet regularly with up to four young people in an interactive session which usually encourages personal sharing. Activities may be determined by the sponsoring program or be left up to the group mentor.
TEAM mentoring:
Three adults working with nine young people. Specifically the Grizzlies Foundation has started the TEAM Mentoring program at two Memphis charter schools.
Where does mentoring occur?
Community-based mentoring programs:
Meetings take place at the mentor and mentee’s discretion. This flexible structure allows the ability to create their own activities anytime, anywhere (i.e. flying kites at the park, going to a museum, etc.).
Site-based mentoring programs:
Meetings take place at a given location, during or after school or on weekends. These include programs at a school or other community site, allowing for onsite support and guidance.
What are the different goals of mentoring?
Personal growth and development:
Activities of mutual interest such as visits to cultural sites, trips to movies or shows, sports or other activities.
Education:
School-related activities ranging from homework, literacy-building, ACT preparation and college and financial aid applications or alternatives to college.
Civics:
Community service-oriented activities aimed at developing a sense of responsibility for one’s community as well as compassion and pride.
Recreation (sport or other):
Participation in groups and teams creates an atmosphere for learning social skills such as cooperation, communication, and leadership.
Career development:
Research and exploration of different career paths and professions to gain experience and networking.
Spiritual growth and development:
Discussion of the significance of faith, attendance of religious services, or study. Faith may also be a component of civic or recreation programs.
Grizzlies Foundation will find best fit for a prospective mentor. Opportunities exist to fit any schedule. For more information, contact (901) 205-TEAM or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).