We Get Things Done

The Appalachian MentorCorps is an AmeriCorps service program of Sojourners Care Network.  Each year about 10 members choose to spend a year of their lives in service as intensive mentors to foster care youth and as coordinators of community service projects. 

A year of service with the Appalachian MentorCorps also greatly impacts the lives of the members themselves.  They learn much about themselves and are challenged to understand civic responsibility and engagement. When they leave the Appalachian MentorCorps they have developed or enhanced skills in the areas of asset-based youth development, foster care, conflict resolution, and anger management, decision making, and the education of at-risk-youth. They also have a unique perspective on rural and Appalachian issues. Members receive intensive training and support, a small living allowance, health insurance, and an education award following the completion of their term of service.

Mentoring Matches

Each MentorCorps member is matched with three to four young people in Sojourners’ Foster Care Program.  Mentors and their mentees meet one-on-one each week either after school or on Saturday.  Match meetings are tailored to best suit the age and interests of each foster care youth.  Typical match meeting activities include trips to the park or library, craft sessions, hiking, fishing, taking in a movie, or roller skating.  Mentors help their mentees with home work and often tutor in reading and other subjects.  Simple activities, like cooking and car washing, provide fun lessons in basic life skills.  These mentoring meetings offer young people in the Sojourners Foster Care Program individualized attention and another stable, dependable relationship in which to grow.

Summer @ Sojo

The Appalachian MentorCorps coordinates a summer enrichment program, “Summer @ Sojo”, which provides fun and educational activities for young people in foster care and Vinton County community children, including special trips to the Columbus Museum of Art, Columbus Zoo and IMAX Theater, Paramount Kings Island, and Columbus Clippers games.  Fun service projects also enhance these summer opportunities for young people .