Healthy Start services are provided in the home by a Family Support Specialist or a trained Volunteer Parent Mentor, in cooperation with Public Health Nurses. Research shows early support and intervention promotes strong parent-child bonding, healthy child development and optimal brain development, all of which lead to school readiness and ultimately school success.

Each Healthy Start Volunteer Parent Mentor is matched with one family and builds a rapport with the young, first-time parents while making home visits.The program officially ends when the child reaches the age of three, but participants and mentors often find a lasting relationship has been formed.

The primary role of a Parent Mentor is to provide social support to their participant. Volunteers receive training and ongoing supervision that prepares them to assist young families by linking them with community resources, encouraging positive parenting, promoting communication and supporting healthy child development.

Mentors are needed for the entire Healthy Start service area. Bilingual, Spanish speaking mentors are especially encouraged to apply.

 

• Volunteers must be a minimum of 25 years old, hold a valid Washington State driver’s license, and have appropriate levels of auto insurance or access to public transportation.
• Each individual must complete a comprehensive application and screening process, including background check, DSHS screening, submission of references, and a TB test.
• All applicants must complete a 12-16 hour Parent Mentor training program before being matched with a family.
• Volunteers must be able to make at least a 12 month commitment to the Parent Mentor Program.

 

New Mentor Training

Potential volunteers should contact Karen Wilson.

 

If you would like more information on becoming a Volunteer Parent Mentor please contact:

Karen Wilson, Healthy Start Parent Mentor Program Coordinator
Friends of Youth
425-885-9375
Karen@friendsofyouth.org

Join the Healthy Start Volunteer Committee

Support the efforts of Healthy Start by joining this group in planning an annual fundraising luncheon and providing administrative assistance to the staff with occasional mailings and other tasks as needed. Contact Susan Nieh, Information Coordinator, 425-885-9375, or susann@friendsofyouth.org