King Street Center

Want to really make a difference in the life of a child? Consider becoming a mentor.

There are three ways to become a mentor at King Street Center:

1. Junior - Senior Buddy

The Junior Senior Buddy program is our largest and longest-running mentoring program for children ages 5 and up. In this program children are matched one-on-one with caring, responsible adults in the community, and spend a few hours together each week participating in an activity that they both enjoy.

You don’t need any special skills to be a mentor. Veteran mentors tell us that it’s often the simple things that kids enjoy most—riding bikes, baking cookies, going to the movies, playing cards…the possibilities are endless! Many local merchants also offer discounts for mentors using the Mobius Card, and there are several planned events for mentor pairs throughout the year.

Making quality matches is our number one goal. We work hard to ensure that the mentor, the child, and the child’s family are all enthusiastic and supportive of the match right from the start. And because we only match children who attend one of our programs, chances are we already have a strong relationship with the mentee and his or her family. This makes it that much easier for us to find the “perfect match” just for you.

We also provide ongoing support for the duration of the match and are always there to help. As one of the oldest, largest, and most respected mentoring programs in Vermont, you can rest assured knowing that we are there to support you every step of the way.

Volunteers are asked to make a one year commitment to be a Big Buddy.

2. Each One Reach One

Think of it as “Mentoring Plus” – in addition to having a “Big Buddy,” mentees in the Each One Reach One program also have their own personal tutor to help them succeed in school!

Tutors volunteer for one hour a week during the school year. They meet their little buddy at King Street Center for one-on-one homework help, reading, and academic skill building in whatever subject they choose. Tutoring matches are rewarded at the end of their time together for their dedication and hard work and for any academic progress.

This is a wonderful volunteer opportunity for motivated high school and college students with busy schedules. You’ll be surprised just how big a difference one hour a week can make!

3. Just For Boys

Not sure if mentoring is right for you? Can you dribble a basketball, play a computer game, or make a pizza? Are you male and over 18? If so, Just for Boys is a great place to start.

Just for Boys is an afterschool program where mentors are matched one-on-one with a boy aged 6-12. But instead of meeting on their own time, Just For Boys mentors meet as a group at King Street Center and enjoy a fun, pre-planned activity together.

Just for Boys takes much of the stress out of being a first-time mentor. Most activities take place at the same time, at the same location, every week. There’s no worrying about what to do or how to spend your time—that’s all taken care of for you by our professional staff. And you won’t be mentoring alone—there will be a group of other guys, just like you, with similar interests and skills.

What we ask from you is that you commit to the program for the duration of the school year. It’s a great way to make some new friends, have fun, and help a young boy in need of a positive male role model.

How do I get started?

Your first step is to contact Gabriella Tufo-Strouse, Volunteer Coordinator, who can answer all your questions. She can be reached at 802.862.6736 ext: 105 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

All volunteers are required to submit an application form, consent to a criminal background check, and participate in an initial two hour training.

Mentor a Child