All mentors in The Education Center's Mentorship Program are trained in our eight (8) week program that provides them with the tools necessary to be effective counselors to their particular mentees. The training is geared towards issues that each mentee may incur during their reentry process. Qualified trainers use proven professional practices to accomplish the universal goal of establishing a cohesive method to coach all mentors. After successfully completing their training, all mentors receive their certification as a licensed mentor which can be used throughout the Richmond Metropolitan area.

The goals of The Education Center's Mentorship Program are as follows:

• Support mentors and assist them to become confident with mentoring techniques
• Encourage mentors and mentees to become critical thinkers and manage emotions
• Build positive self-esteem for all participants
• Improve communication skills between mentors and mentees
• Provide educational services on matters such as: family problems, sexual abuse, and health related issues
• Provide alternatives to delinquent behavior