FAQs about Mentoring at the Clubhouse

What kind of time commitment is required to Mentor at the Computer Clubhouse?

The commitment varies by Clubhouse, but the standard time commitment is 2 hours per week on one set day for a period of a few months. Of course, if you can and want to come more than that, fantastic! If you feel like you can not make that commitment but would still like to dedicate some time to the Clubhouse, contact the Coordinator to find other opportunities that may be available. Go to our Interactive Map to find a Clubhouse near you.

Are technical skills necessary to be a good volunteer/Mentor?

Not at all. The most important skill a Clubhouse Mentor can possess is the ability to work well with youth. Knowing about computers and/or the software titles is great but what the youth need is consistent caring adults. The Computer Clubhouse is not all about gaining technical skills. It's about building self-confidence, exploring creativity and gaining life skills. Without technical skills you can still encourage a Member, and one of the most powerful things for youth to see is your willingness to learn right along side them. There are all kinds of resources to learn how to use the software and hardware in the Clubhouse and many opportunities to improve your computer skills, from printed matter to online tutorials to other youth and Mentors. If there are specific technology skills that you'd like to acquire, ask the Clubhouse Coordinator what's available in your Clubhouse.

Will I have one Member that I am working with exclusively or will I be teaching classes to a lot of young people?

The Computer Clubhouse employs more of a group mentoring technique when supporting our young people. Mentors can go from person to person, supporting many Members each day depending greatly on the needs of the Member. They may also sit side-by-side for long periods of time with one Member, helping them with a particular project. It can vary by day. In the Clubhouse, young people are encouraged to follow their own interests and our Mentors are there to support them through that process. Mentors do not teach classes, but rather they learn alongside the Members.

What is a typical day for a Mentor at a Clubhouse?

Each day at the Clubhouse can (and most likely will!) be different than the last. Some days you may find that there are many new Members who need a lot of support, other days there are more mature Members who prefer to work on their own. You might find yourself without a free minute one day, and on other days it might seem to you like you are just standing around. It may also take some time to build relationships, so it may take several visits before Members feel comfortable asking you for help. Use downtime by expanding your own learning and working on your personal projects. This may help inspire a Member who is looking for something new to do. In addition, you may want to ask the Clubhouse staff if they need any help with such tasks as file management, data base entry, etc. As you consider various options, remember to remain available to Members for questions or guidance.

What kind of training can I expect once I sign up to be a Mentor?

Each Mentor should receive an orientation to the Computer Clubhouse, as well as a tour of the Clubhouse space. A Clubhouse Mentor Handbook is available to all Mentors that describes the role they are taking on, history of the Computer Clubhouse and tips for working with youth. Mentors also receive information regarding the Clubhouse rules, various projects or initiatives, and ways they can begin their time in the Clubhouse. In addition, Clubhouse Mentors have access to the Computer Clubhouse Network Intranet site, The Village, which provides all Clubhouse staff, Mentors and Members with project ideas, software tips and an online community to collaborate with others around our world-wide Network. Many Clubhouses also have ongoing training opportunities that are geared towards Mentors’ needs. Ask your Clubhouse Coordinator about what type of training they may be able to provide.

How do I become a Clubhouse Mentor?

Each Clubhouse has a different procedure in terms of signing up their Mentors, but all are very appreciative of any time a person can volunteer with them. The best place to start is to locate the Computer Clubhouse that would be the most convenient for you to volunteer and contact the site’s Clubhouse Coordinator. Use our Interactive Map to find a Clubhouse near you.