Join our Mentorship Program | Become a Mentor

SMILE Canada invites you to become part of our Mentorship Program, an initiative designed to support children and youth with disabilities by building meaningful and long-lasting relationships through mentorship.

This program pairs dedicated volunteers with children and youth registered with SMILE. Through regular engagement, mentors help create supportive relationships that encourage confidence, inclusion, and personal growth.

A mentor provides guidance, companionship, and encouragement while helping foster positive experiences and opportunities for youth living with disabilities.

What Mentors Do

Mentors are paired with a child or youth in the SMILE community and work to build a supportive and positive relationship. Mentors play an important role in:

• Creating a safe and supportive space for youth
• Encouraging confidence, independence, and social engagement
• Being a consistent and positive presence in a young person’s life
• Promoting inclusion and awareness within the community

Mentors also participate in regular check-ins with SMILE Program Coordinators to ensure the mentorship relationship is supported and meaningful for both the mentor and the youth.

Mentor Qualifications

We are looking for individuals who are committed, compassionate, and passionate about supporting youth with disabilities.

Applicants must:

• Be 18 years of age or older
• Be reliable and able to commit consistently to the program
• Complete a Police Vulnerable Sector Check
• Be energetic, positive, and compassionate
• Be a patient and attentive listener
• Have a genuine interest in supporting and promoting inclusion for children and youth with disabilities and their families
• Be willing to advocate for disability awareness within the community

Commitment

The Mentorship Program requires a higher level of commitment than a typical volunteer role. Mentors are expected to build a consistent relationship with their matched youth and participate in weekly check-ins with Program Coordinators.

Please ensure you have the capacity to commit to this role before applying.

Get Involved

If you are interested in becoming a mentor or would like to learn more about the program, please contact:

juweria.osman@smilecan.org

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