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Mentoring Children of Promise
4701 North Keystone Avenue, Suite 150
Indianapolis, IN 46205

Goal of Program: To provide stabilizing influences in the lives of youth with incarcerated parents by promoting a trusting, caring relationship with an adult mentor.

Approximately 26,000 minor children in Indiana have an incarcerated parent.

Statistically, these children are more likely to live in poverty, engage in unhealthy behaviors (smoking, binge drinking, unprotected sex), have lower self-concepts and lower achievement scores than their peers. Children of incarcerated parents are four times more likely to become juvenile delinquents than are children from the same socioeconomic background with parents at home.

Youth ages 6 to 15 who reside in Marion, Vigo, or Parke counties and have a parent who is currently incarcerated in state or federal prison are eligible for this program.

Mentors and mentees have contact a minimum of twice per week, at least once in person. Various planned activities give youth and their mentors the opportunity to become acquainted with other youth and adults in the mentoring program.

We strive to provide an individualized mentoring plan with objectives based on the input of youth, mentor, care giving adult and if appropriate, the incarcerated parent. Support services and/or referrals to families of mentored children are provided as needs are identified.

Mentors, 21 years of age and older, are carefully screened and receive training prior to being matched with youth. Mentor/mentee relationships are supported by professional staff.