​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 that lasts for one year or longer. Mentors and Mentees can be found in as many places as their mutual interests take them: soccer fields, fairs, libraries, theaters, kitchens, and backyards. Young and older have fun while forming a strong relationship that leads to positive outcomes for the child. 

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, a home visit, 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 grow 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 match meetings occur on school grounds, and are planned and supervised by Southeast Ohio Youth Mentoring (SEOYM) staff members. Our curriculum focuses on nutrition, physical activity, and gardening. 

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  
• Monroe County
  • Woodsfield Elementary
  • Monroe Central High School 
• Washington County
  • Washington Elementary
  • Marietta High School 

Enroll or Volunteer today!