Camp Horizon Adult
Mentoring Program

Help restore dignity and hope to Atlanta's youth in impacted by foster care.

What is CHAMPS?

Camp Horizon’s Adult Mentoring Program (CHAMPS) is designed to facilitate perpetual relationships between dedicated adult volunteers and youth through the year. Integrating with Camp Horizon’s existing culture of respect, responsibility, and resilience, the goal of this program is to increase wellbeing and healthy development for youth impacted by foster care.

Mentorship is designed to be a natural stepping stone following youth’s admittance to Camp Horizon’s other programs and attendance at summer camp. Through the unique camper-counselor relationship of summer camp, youth and volunteers initiate a foundation of trust as they navigate adventure and growth together. Following this launching point, Camp Horizon’s mentorship program offers a system for continual development of these one-on-one mentor relationships year round. This type of natural mentorship provides youth with a consistent and trusted adult in their life, regardless of where their placement journey may take them.

Each program cycle, the 10-month mentorship program includes monthly in-person visits between mentors and mentees, recommended bi-weekly communication, and support with participation in Camp Horizon events and programs.

5 Outcome pillars of the program

These areas of emphasis were determined based on research highlighting categories that most impact healthy, prosocial development and positive outcomes for youth impacted by foster care. Following the individual needs and unique interests of each youth, mentors naturally utilize discussions and activities that integrate these 5 pillars into the mentoring relationship.

Build Confidence & Self Esteem

Mentee will increase positive decision making, communication, and behavior regarding self-worth and potential

Psychological Resilience

Mentee successfully copes with and responds to challenging life situations

Educational Achievement

Mentee will increase engagement in educational activities and positively communicate the importance of education in achieving their potential

Health & Well Being

Mentee will increase positive decision making regarding personal health both mental and physical

Life Skills & Milestones

Mentee will successfully navigate life events as appropriately determined by their age and development

Eligibility

Applicants must be
actively involved in
Camp Horizon programs throughout the year
Youth ages 8-24 are eligible to apply, acceptance is determined on a case-by-case basis in accordance with program capacity
Caregivers must be willing and able to coordinate consistently with mentors and arrange for meet-ups and mentor-mentee communication

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to participate in the mentoring program (CHAMPS)?
Youth applicants must be actively involved in Camp Horizon programs for at least 6 months to be eligible to apply. Due to limited capacity, we prioritize applicants who consistently attend year-round events.
What are the requirements to become a mentor?
Camp Horizon mentors need to volunteer consistently with year-round events and programs for at least one year before they are eligible to apply as mentors (some exceptions apply on a case-by-case basis). Mentors complete additional training and vetting to be eligible and must commit to contacting their mentee at least 1x/month for the duration of the 10 month program (March-December).
Who pays for mentor/mentee activities?
Mentors are primarily responsible for funding activities. Camp Horizon offers a small monthly stipend that can be used for gas reimbursement or activities or materials–this stipend can be applied for on a monthly basis based on mentor needs. We encourage low-cost activities and free community resources like parks and libraries.
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