Southeastern OH Youth Mentoring

SEOYM pairs school-aged children and adult volunteers for a mentoring relationship lasting a year or longer. Mentors and mentees can connect in various places, from soccer fields and fairs to libraries, theaters, kitchens, and backyards. In these settings, younger and older individuals enjoy their time while building strong relationships that positively benefit the child and mentor.​

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Services Offered:

• ​In Youth Leadership School Mentoring Program- Pairs high school students with at-risk elementary-aged students for a 1-on-1 student mentorship. All mentorship meetings occur on school premises and are organized and overseen by SEOYM staff.

• ​Bobcats and Buddies Mentoring Program- Connects Southeast Ohio students in grades 4-7 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 in wellness and well-being activities under the supervision of SEOYM staff. Participants are paired with the same mentor if they choose to attend the following year.

About the Leadership

Southeastern Ohio Youth Mentoring has a rich history of nurturing friendships between children and caring adult volunteers. Since 1986, the mentoring programs have made a difference in lives of thousands of area youth.​ Laura Olbers, the Executive Director, is passionate about community health and well-being. The organization continues to build upon the support of southeastern Ohio and our Appalachian community in addressing the needs of children and their families seeking strong, positive role models.