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C3 Mentoring 2023-2024 Information

Cougar Community Connection (C3) is a mentoring program developed through a partnership between CPAC and Illini Central that motivates and supports students to desire achievement and self-improvement while strengthening community connections.  C3 uses adult community members who commit to supporting, guiding, and being a friend to Illini Central sophomore student(s) for one school year.  By becoming part of the social network of adults who care about the youth, mentors can help students develop and reach positive personal and academic goals.

Mentor Role

  • Take the lead in supporting students through a one-to-two relationship with each mentor connecting with 2 students

  • Serve as a positive role model and friend

  • Build self-esteem and motivation

  • Help set goals and work toward accomplishing them

Desirable Qualities

  • Willing  and active listener

  • Encouraging, supportive, patient, and flexible

Participation Requirements

  • Be at least 21 years old living in or around the Illini Central School District #189

  • Be interested in working with young people

  • Be willing to adhere to all program policies and procedures

  • Be willing to complete the application and screening process

  • Be dependable and consistent in meeting the time commitments

  • Inform Pod Leaders of absences

  • Attend mentor training session as prescribed

  • Be willing to communicate regularly with program directors

  • Have a clean criminal history

  • No use of illicit drugs or use of alcohol or controlled substances in an inappropriate manner

  • Not currently in treatment for substance abuse

Time Commitment

  • Make a one school year commitment 1st Wednesday of Each Month

  • Attend training sessions and year-end event

Application and Screening Process

  • Complete C3 Mentor Information Form 

  • Complete Illini Central’s Volunteer Information/Waiver Liability Form which includes a background check

  • Attend mentor trainings

Benefits for Mentors

  • Personal fulfillment through contribution to the community and individuals

  • Satisfaction in helping someone mature, progress, and achieve goals

Program Policies

  • C3 is designed to take place in the school setting.  Mentors may, however, meet with students outside the school at the invitation of the student and parent/guardian. 

  • No one-on-one private meetings

  • Discuss special concerns regarding the student with Dr. Durbin, ICHS principal

               (i.e. family situations, abusive environments,  major health risks,  or other serious issues)

If interested in being a mentor, please print and fill these two documents out. Give them to Eric Stender.
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