OAR 416-450-0070: Mentor Program

(1) Service delivery may be coordinated by a mentor program agency and provided by volunteer mentors who interact regularly with a youth in custody in a one-to-one relationship. Mentor agencies use a case management approach, with follow through on each case from initial inquiry through closure. The mentor program case manager screens applicants, makes and supervises the matches, and closes the matches when eligibility requirements are no longer met or either party decides they can no longer participate fully in the relationship. (2) Volunteer mentor screening must include a written application, a criminal records check, and an extensive interview. (3) Youth in custody assessment must involve a written application and interviews with the youth in custody, the youth in custody's juvenile parole/probation officer (JPPO), and the substitute care provider if the youth in custody is in substitute care. (4) Matches must be carefully considered and based on the needs of the youth in custody; abilities of volunteer mentors; OYA and the substitute care provider preferences; and the capacity of program staff. (5) The JPPO, volunteer mentor, and youth in custody must initially meet to ensure the match is appropriate and clarify OYA expectations. (6) JPPO supervision must be through regular contact with the volunteer mentor, youth in custody, and substitute care provider when appropriate; monthly telephone contact with the volunteer mentor, substitute care provider, or youth in custody during the first year; and quarterly contact with all parties during the duration of the match.