Become a Mentor

Volunteers at a Computer Clubhouse, often referred to as Mentors, join a unique community of young people and adults who create, invent, and explore together using the latest in computer technology. Clubhouse Mentors vary in age, background, interests and skills. Typically Mentors are university students, artists, educators, graphic designers, software developers, architects, Clubhouse Member "alumni" or community members. Mentors find the Clubhouse in much the same ways that Members (Clubhouse youth) do -- through word of mouth, university programs, current Mentors, or community networks.

Mentors participate in many activities at the Computer Clubhouse, but it’s important for Clubhouse volunteers to understand that:

• Mentors help youth express themselves through technology: Clubhouse Mentors support Members as they connect their interests with the computer technology skills they need to express those interests.
• Mentors focus on developing relationships: Successful Mentors understand the importance of establishing relationships based on respect and trust.
• Mentors are mutual learners: Clubhouse Mentors sometimes lead, but they often follow, as they know it’s empowering for young people to teach others.

There are a variety of ways to become involved as a Clubhouse Mentor:

Opportunities vary from Clubhouse to Clubhouse, but typically Mentors participate in activities such as:

1. Working with Members and Mentors on a specific project or activity.
2. Contributing to the Clubhouse to College/Clubhouse to Career (C2C) Program
3. Recruiting other Mentors
4. Helping with technical systems maintenance
5. Offering a workshop
6. Collaborating with other Mentors and participants at Clubhouses around the Computer Clubhouse Network through the Clubhouse online community, The Village
7. Encouraging participants to contribute to the Computer Clubhouse Network Intranet Site, the organization's own website or a newsletter, or finding web sites that may inspire creative ideas
8. Developing themes for group projects
9. Creating new project ideas
10. Working on your own project

It's a good idea to consult the Clubhouse Coordinator about current projects, additional roles that you may be able to play, or any project ideas that you have in mind. Still have questions? Click here for answers to many Frequently Asked Questions about volunteering at the Computer Clubhouse.