OUR MISSION REMAINS THE SAME: To support your educational and professional aspirations so you can launch into self-sufficiency, free of government or any other kind of assistance, for the rest of your life. When you are employed in a role and industry that makes you happy, provided you with financial stability, and opportunities for personal and professional growth, you will have succeeded in your fellowship.  ​
Empower Your Future: Become a Fellow or Mentor, Expectations and Forms
Welcome to the R.J. Leonard Foundation—where we empower young adults transitioning from foster care into independent lives. We provide tailored mentoring and financial support to help our Fellows, who are either preparing to leave or have recently left foster care, achieve their personal and professional goals.

Our mission is to educate, initiate careers, and provide personal mentorship to young adults aging out of the foster care system.

Becoming a Mentor
Qualifications and Requirements
Who Can Become a Mentor?
To join the R.J. Leonard Foundation as a mentor, candidates must meet the following criteria:
  • Valid Driver’s License and Proof of Auto Insurance: Ensures safe transportation if driving with Fellows is necessary.
  • Background Checks: Completion of three types of background checks is mandatory:
  • Commitment to Training: Mentors are required to complete formal and informal training on child welfare, trauma-informed care, Positive Youth Development, and suicide prevention.

Application Process
How to Become a Mentor
​Follow these steps to start your mentorship journey:
  1. Express your Interest: Fill out the Mentor Application Form which includes general information and specific matching questions to align your strengths with a suitable Fellow. Fill Out Application
  2. Training and Clearances: Complete the necessary background checks and participate in required training sessions.
  3. Mentor Agreement: Review and sign the Mentor Agreement which outlines the guidelines and expectations. View Agreement
  4. Matching with a Fellow: Once approved, you will be matched with a Fellow based on shared interests, goals, and the specific needs of the Fellow. Access the Form

Benefits of Being a Mentor
The Rewards of Mentorship Mentors at the R.J. Leonard Foundation enjoy:
  • Personal Fulfillment: Experience the satisfaction of making a significant impact in a young adult's life.
  • Professional Development: Enhance your leadership and mentoring skills through ongoing training and real-world experience.
  • Community Connection: Become part of a community of like-minded professionals who are committed to fostering positive change.

Mentor Responsibilities
Your Role as a Mentor As a mentor, you will:
  • Engage Regularly: Meet with your Fellow according to the agreed schedule, either in-person or via phone/video calls.
  • Provide Guidance: Offer advice and support, focusing on the Fellow’s personal growth, educational achievements, and career aspirations.
  • Support Emotional and Social Development: Help your Fellow navigate challenges and celebrate successes, fostering a supportive and enduring relationship.
  • Understand the Role of a Mentor: Please review the Fellow/Mentor handbook to familiarize yourself with the expectations and needs of mentors. View the Handbook

Mentor Responsibilities
As a Mentor, you are responsible for:
  • Providing Guidance and Support: Offer consistent and reliable support, advice, and encouragement to help your Fellow navigate their personal and professional challenges.
  • Committing Time: Dedicate the necessary time to meet with your Fellow regularly, ensuring meaningful and productive interactions.
  • Participating in Training: Engage in ongoing training sessions provided by the Foundation to stay informed about best practices in mentorship and child welfare.
  • Maintaining Confidentiality: Ensure all discussions and information shared by your Fellow are kept confidential, respecting their privacy and the trust placed in you.
  • Documenting Interactions: Complete and submit all required forms that track progress and capture key discussion points from meetings with your Fellow.

Mentors Forms and Required Documents
Regularly Needed Mentor Forms and Required Documents
To ensure a comprehensive and secure mentoring process, please complete the following:
  1. Monthly Evaluation Form: Both Mentors and Fellows complete evaluations after their first 30 days of meeting and every month after to assess the initial progress and dynamics of their relationship. Submit Evaluation. 
  2. 90 Evaluation Form: Mentor to fill out after three months of collaboration, providing insights into the mentoring relationship and areas for improvement. Submit Evaluation.
  3. Financial Request Form: Mentors submit scholarship requests through a combined effort with a Fellow. This form accepts educational, social or cultural needs. Request Financial Support
  4. Training Completion Certificates: Submit certificates upon completion of required training sessions.
  5. Meeting Notes & Action Sheet: Document key points and action items from each meeting with your Fellow. Submit Notes.
  6. Mentor Application Form: Provide details about your background and motivation for mentoring. Fill Out Application
  7. Background Check Authorization: Necessary for conducting your background checks. Authorize Background Check.

​Contact Information
Get In Touch
We are here to help! If you have any questions about the application process, program details, or need assistance with the forms, please don't hesitate to contact us:
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ExecDirector@rjleonardfoundation.org
1-(646) 246-8199
1097 Street Road
​New Hope, PA 18938
RJLF is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization
​© RJ Leonard Foundation, 2023
​Website by Madeline Hunt