Civic Engagement Seminar

Concept
This module is designed to introduce mentoring concepts and the importance of service-learning classes. Mentoring programs are generally large networks of adults who can offer youth their time, attention, and guidance. Mentors also provide youth with a sense of direction and help them gain access to resources they may not otherwise be aware of. Service-learning is a teaching methodology that combines service to the community with student learning in a way that improves both the student and the community.

The word mentor means "a wise and trusted counselor or teacher". It is the relationship built between the mentor and mentee that makes mentoring programs different from other types of social services programs. It is also this relationship that helps mentees achieve their full potential.

One of the objectives of the Lighthouse Partnership program is to develop, implement and build comprehensive extended-day civic tutoring programs that pair elementary/middle-school students with college students participating in a service-learning course. It is a goal of this program, among other things, to improve the academic efficacy and civic engagement of the students involved.

Pre-flective Activity
Read the following statement from The Concluding Report of the Carnegie Council on Adolescent Development.

"The years from ten through fourteen are a crucial turning point in life's trajectory. This period, therefore, represents an optimal time for interventions to foster effective education, prevent destructive behavior, and promote enduring health practices."

Now, think about this time in your life. Record the following information in your journal. Who were the men and/or women that most positively influenced you? Is this the time in your life when you "decided" what you would be when you "grew up"? Did you have a particularly close relationship with a teacher, a minister, a coach, a Sunday school teacher, or another adult? Now, think about how this person(s) positively impacted your life? Did he/she provide you with direction, teach you respect for yourself and others, help you learn to problem solve, or just listen when things were tough?

Readings

• A Guide for New Mentors
  

• National Service-Learning Clearinghouse (What is service-learning?)
  

Optional Readings/Resources

• www.bbbsms.org
• www.mentoring.org

Reflective Activity
Keeping in mind the report you just read, record the following in your journal: Do you now have a better understanding of:
· Mentoring?
· How to create and cultivate a mentoring relationship?
· How the relationship can positively impact a young person?
· Your own experiences, strengths, and weaknesses and how these might impact the relationship?

What is your definition of service-learning? Why do you think it is important? What did you get out of this service-learning experience?

Finally, think about how you are going to interact with the young person you are mentoring/tutoring? Imagine how your mentee's life can be changed because he/she met that special someone who showed the care, attention, and concern so desperately needed.

After completing this module, please proceed to Module 2: Democracy.