Question 1

How old do I need to be to mentor?

Accepted Answer

Mentors must be at least 22 years old.

Question 2

What is the time commitment?

Accepted Answer

Dare to Dream® mentors commit to at least two in-person connections per month and a minimum one-year commitment. This consistency creates the trust necessary for youth to set goals, take risks, and grow. While the program operates year by year, many of our mentor relationships extend far beyond that first year.

Question 3

Do I need reliable transportation?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Mentors must have access to a car to meet consistently with their mentee.

Question 4

Is a background check required?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All mentors must pass a background check prior to being matched.

Question 5

What does it cost to mentor?

Accepted Answer

Every Dare to Dream® mentor is responsible for covering the cost of their background check, required annually, prior to being matched in the program. This payment goes directly to the agency who conducts the background check, and the results come to us. Detailed instructions will be provided to guide you through each step of the process.

Question 6

Do I need previous knowledge of the foster care system or professional mentoring experience?

Accepted Answer

No – none at all! You don’t need professional experience – just a willingness to show up consistently. We provide comprehensive training, clear structure, and ongoing coaching so you feel supported every step of the way.

Question 7

What does a Dare to Dream mentor do?

Accepted Answer

Dare to Dream mentors walk one-on-one with youth ages 11–22 as they navigate life, goals, and big transitions.

Mentors might:
Help with homework or explore college options
Attend sporting events or performances
Explore hobbies or try something new together
Grab a sweet treat or meal and talk about life
Practice job interviews or build resumes
Simply listen and remind a young person, “I believe in you.”

The goal is simple and profound: consistent presence, steady encouragement, and a trusted adult relationship that lasts beyond the program year.

Question 8

Can I be matched based on personal preferences?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We thoughtfully match mentors and youth based on compatibility, proximity, and mutual preferences to ensure everyone is set up for success.

We welcome mentors from all backgrounds and value diversity within our community. We do not discriminate on the basis of religion, marital status, ethnicity, age, financial position, gender identity, or sexual orientation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Love Box®
Program

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

What is the time commitment?

Do I need reliable transportation?

Is a background check required?

What does it cost to volunteer?

Do I need previous knowledge of the foster care system?

What does a Love Box volunteer actually do?

Can I be matched based on personal preferences?

Could Volunteering Be Your Next Yes?

Dare to Dream®
Program

How old do I need to be to mentor?

What is the time commitment?

Do I need reliable transportation?

Is a background check required?

What does it cost to mentor?

Do I need previous knowledge of the foster care system or professional mentoring experience?

What does a Dare to Dream mentor do?

Can I be matched based on personal preferences?

Could Mentoring Be Your Next Yes?

Frequently Asked Questions

Love Box® Program

How old do I need to be to volunteer?

What is the time commitment?

Do I need reliable transportation?

Is a background check required?

What does it cost to volunteer?

Do I need previous knowledge of the foster care system?

What does a Love Box volunteer actually do?

Can I be matched based on personal preferences?

Could Volunteering Be Your Next Yes?

Dare to Dream® Program

How old do I need to be to mentor?

What is the time commitment?

Do I need reliable transportation?

Is a background check required?

What does it cost to mentor?

Do I need previous knowledge of the foster care system or professional mentoring experience?

What does a Dare to Dream mentor do?

Can I be matched based on personal preferences?

Could Mentoring Be Your Next Yes?

Love Box®
Program

Dare to Dream®
Program