Manheim Summer Mentoring Program
This program is suspended for 2013.
Program Focus and Goals
This paid summer internship focuses primarily on the value of mentorship. Based upon the belief that individual attention and mentorship can make an important difference in children’s lives, nine interns are selected to mentor 30+ middle school children in the Manheim Central School District who are experiencing social, emotional or behavioral challenges that get in the way of their success in school. Guidance counselors and teachers refer students to the program.
Prior to the start of the summer camp, the interns participate in a two-week training program where they learn the essential tools needed to assist the campers. The focus of the curriculum is to improve social functioning and promote resiliency. This is accomplished by:
- building empathetic relationships,
- changing negative scripts,
- providing opportunities that create a sense of belonging and responsibility,
- learning self control through effective discipline,
- attaining self worth through engaging in challenging activities,
- learning coping skills and problem solving.
During the morning the campers are divided into three groups; an all girls group, a younger boys group and an older boys group. The groups rotate through three primary activities - arts and crafts, fun fitness and leadership group. There is no academic component to the program.
In the afternoons, the interns and campers visit the nearby community pool, watch films followed by group discussions, have guest speakers or just hang out. Every week the interns and children take fields trips to places such as F&M, Lancaster Science Factory, Laserdome, Cherry Crest Farms and Mt. Gretna Lake.
Mentor Characteristics
Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate the following:
- Knowledge of and experience working with youth.
- Interest in human behavior and/or child development.
- Understanding of some of the barriers to success that confront youth like those involved in this program.
- Respect for and ability to work with people from a variety of backgrounds.
- Maturity and professionalism in a work setting - dressing and acting appropriately, meeting deadlines, being accountable, fulfilling expected responsibilities, treating co-workers and supervisors respectfully.
- Ability to work effectively as a team member.
- Creativity and resourcefulness.
- Commitment to being a positive role model for impressionable youth.
2012 Internship Information
APPLICATION PERIOD: February 11-22, 2012
PROGRAM DATES: June 3-August 2:
Course Credit: No Credit
Who Can apply: rising sophomores, juniors and seniors
Stipend: $2,800 for the entire program. Housing is not included.
- Nine Internships are available. Selections are made in mid-March.
- Internship introduction and training for two weeks on campus; six weeks daily summer camp at Manheim Central Middle School.
Questions about this program? Please contact Associate Director or call the Ware Institute at 717-291-4164.
2009 Manheim Mentoring photos and Mentor comments
