Why Background Checks are Important to Mentoring Programs on Tuesday, January 9, 2007, at the Volunteer Center, from 8:30-10 a.m.

Leslie White, with Croydon Consulting, LLC, a risk management consulting firm, is the guest speaker. “Background checks are just one of the tools that allow mentoring programs to select qualified mentors while protecting the well-being and safety of the children and youth participating in the program. Children participating in mentoring program are already at risk of for having a troubled life so it is crucial that the mentors be carefully screened to enable a positive experience for both the child and the mentor," said Ms White. “The screening process separates valuable and committed applicants from those who would not be appropriate mentors.” Ms. White will cover types of screening tools, including background checks, the costs involved, and why it is important to establish screening requirements. The Volunteer Center and Mentoring Roundtable are also supporting National Mentoring Month by helping partner agencies to recruit volunteer mentors. “We work with more than 50 different organizations and the mentoring programs that they run,” Fay Mauro, the Center’s Executive Director said. “These programs are in schools, churches, youth agencies, some businesses and even county offices. Some mentoring programs meet before school, during the school day, after school, and some have flexible schedules.” Many mentoring programs work with school age children from grades 1-12. The focus of a program can be on recreation, developing a friendship, sharpening school studies, or life skills. “There are many different factors that will influence the program to which you may be referred by the Volunteer Center,” Ms. Mauro said. “Based on your preferences, time availabilities and your location in Anne Arundel County or Annapolis, we will try to suggest a program that will suit your schedule and your interests in helping a child.” For more information about the January 9th program or to make a reservation, call 410-897-9207, or send an email to holli@volunteeerannearundel.org. There is no charge. The Volunteer Center is located at 2666 Riva Road, Suite 130, Annapolis, MD 21401.