​Serving Southeast Ohio communities since 1986.

Founded in 1986, for 32 years we operated as a Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS) affiliate. With a change in the operational minimum requirements by the national office that would have required us to bring in yearly revenues of $200,000, we made the difficult decision to disaffiliate from BBBS. We appreciate and continue to build upon the support of southeastern Ohio and our Appalachian community in addressing the needs of children and their families who are seeking strong, positive role models in their lives.  ​

​Community-Based Programming

Children are matched with adult volunteers for a mentoring relationship lasting one year or longer. Mentors and mentees can connect in various places, from soccer fields and fairs to libraries, theaters, kitchens, and backyards. In these different settings, younger and older individuals enjoy their time while building strong relationships that benefit the child and mentor positively.

Our Mentees

• 5-17 years old 
• Residing in Southeast Ohio, especially Athens, Meigs, Vinton or Washington Counties 
• Referred to Southeast Ohio Youth Mentoring (SEOYM) by a school employee, social worker, or a parent/guardian 
• Eager to spend 1-2 hours a week with a Mentor
• Have the full support of the parent/guardian to participate in the program 

Our Mentors

• Complete a thorough background check, an interview with a staff member, and training
• Are 19 years of age or older
• Have a valid driver’s license and automobile insurance 
• Spend a minimum of 1-2 hours a week for one year (usually longer!) with a child 
• Are committed to being a role model for children who grows up in our community

Researchers found that after 18 months of spending time in programs like ours, compared to children not being mentored, those with a mentor were:

46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs
27% less likely to begin using alcohol
52% less likely to skip school
37% less likely to skip a class
33% less likely to hit someone

​Youth In Leadership

The Youth in Leadership (YiL) School Mentoring Program pairs high school students with at-risk elementary students for a one-on-one mentoring relationship. All mentorship meetings take place on school premises and are organized and overseen by staff members from Southeast Ohio Youth Mentoring (SEOYM). Our curriculum focuses on self confidence, expanding social emotional skills, and making positive choices for ones own wellbeing. 

During the 2017-2018 school year, more than 80 students participated in the program, and high-school mentors collectively logged over 600 volunteer hours. 

Our YiL Locations

• Athens County
  • The Plains Elementary 
  • Athens High School  
  • Nelsonville-York Elementary
  • Nelsonville-York High School 
• Meigs County​
  • Eastern Elementary
  • Eastern Local Elementary 
• Washington County
  • Washington Elementary
  • Marietta High School

​Bobcats and Buddies

The Bobcats and Buddies program connects students in grades 4-7 in Southeast Ohio with first- and second-year medical students from the Ohio University Heritage College of Medicine (OUHCOM). This free initiative pairs young participants with background-checked OUHCOM volunteers, who guide them through engaging activities focused on well-being and wellness, all under the supervision of SEOYM staff. Each child is matched with the same mentor throughout the program, fostering a strong connection and providing a consistent role model.
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Since its launch in 2023, Bobcats and Buddies has flourished, attracting great interest from both mentees and mentors. This inspiring program allows youth to look up to future doctors, creating a meaningful impact on their lives and encouraging them to envision their own bright futures.

Apply Today!

The Bobcats and Buddies program is accepting applicants for the 2024-2025 school year! For more information or to apply, you can fill out an interest form on this website, contact [email protected], or call our office at (740)797-0037. Availability for this program goes quickly, so contact us now to secure a spot!

Enroll or Volunteer today!