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Mentors are trained volunteers who, upon request, provide support empowering families of children with disabilities throughout the special education process. A Mentor does not represent or speak for a parent or family member, but assists the individual in becoming a strong educational advocate for his or her child. MPACT Mentors are screened and receive training and supervision from MPACT staff.
How do I become an MPACT Mentor Volunteer?
- All Mentors must complete and return the appropriate Mentor application and any other required paperwork to the Mentor Coordinator.
- All Mentors are required to attend the core MPACT workshops including, but not limited to, Art of Effective Advocacy, Special Education Law, Understanding the IEP Process, and Disagreement Resolution. Volunteers interested in becoming a Transition Mentor must also attend transition-related workshops.
- All Mentors must complete Mentor Certification Training and attend IEP Modeling with an MPACT staff member.
Types of MPACT Mentors
Parent Mentors
These are trained volunteers who provide support to parents or family members of children with disabilities throughout the special education process. Parent Mentors offer one-on-one assistance to families via phone, email, and in-person meetings. Mentors may also assist in other volunteer assignments or activities.
Transition Mentors
These are trained volunteers who specialize in offering support to families in transition-related processes from school to adult life. In addition to completing the core Parent Mentor trainings, Transition Mentors also receive specialized training in the areas of transition.
Support Mentors
These are trained volunteers who provide office support, such as making copies and filing or assembling handouts and packets; assist MPACT staff at trainings, such as disseminating and gathering information and surveys; and represent MPACT at other local and state events, for example, attending Back-to-School Fairs and Resource Fairs.
Incentives for MPACT Parent Mentors
Mentors will be reimbursed for expenses incurred while performing their role as Mentors. Mileage reimbursement is available for attendance of education meetings, parent meetings, and other Mentor-related activities and duties. The current rate of reimbursement is .40 cents per mile. In addition to the mileage reimbursement, Mentors are also allowed a respite-care stipend of $25.00 for education meetings and parent preparation meetings.
To apply to become an MPACT Mentor, please fill out the Mentor Application packet and submit according to the directions provided.
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