Many of our current mentors stated that they did not have an opportunity to interact with an older, same-race adoptee when they were young, and many of their concerns and questions about race, ethnicity, adoption, and identity, went unanswered.  They all stated that they were participating so that they could be that person for a young adoptee who is about to have those same questions, and who could benefit from an older friend with whom they have much in common.

We are continually seeking motivated, responsible undergraduates who want to provide young adopted children with the opportunity to have a friend in someone who knows what it's like to be an adoptee.  It is important for you to understand from the very beginning, that this is not your ordinary community service,volunteering sort of venture, rather, in participating in thisprogram, you will be personally changing the life of a young adopted child.  

We will try our best to match you with a young adoptee who is the same ethnicity/race, and gender as you, as we believe that shared identities will exponentially strengthen the relationship that you will form with them.

Details

-Mentors must be adopted! It can be an international, foster care, or domestic private adoption.

-Mentors will participate in an interview, background check, and reference check prior to participation.

-Mentors will be expected to spend approximately 3-5 hours per week with their mentee doing fun activities.  While this may seem like a lot, it is easy to spend one afternoon a week doing something fun with a child who will greatly benefit from your time.  Remember, it's not what you do with them that's important, but simply, the time that you spend with them that is meaningful.

-Mentors are expected to participate in a mentor/mentee relationship for one academic year, preferably from September - June.

-Mentor Group Meetings: Mentors are also required to participate in mentor group meetings that take place every other week during both semesters.  In these meetings, mentors will support one another as they share stories about the challenges and  rewards of mentoring.  Mentors are encouraged to share their stories and offer each other advice on how to handle tough situations, or even to share fun ideas for activities to do together.  Mentors will also discuss issues related to mentoring, adoption, race, ethnicity, and identity, as they learn more about their relationship with their mentee, and perhaps, learn more about what their own adoption means to them.  

Contact Information

• Jen Dolan, UMass Rudd Adoption Research Program
• jdolan@psych.umass.edu
• 413 545-0547