A Caring Online Connection

OFA's innovative vMentor Program is the only national online mentoring program for foster teens. It provides a convenient and highly effective online platform for private communication between young adults and trained volunteer mentors.

The system uses web portal technology to enable exchanges around the clock, as well as access to a host of resources helpful for young adults aging out of the foster care system.

The program serves current and former foster youth ages 16-23 who receive post-secondary funding from OFA or who are in an independent living program that partners with OFA. These youth are matched with compatible vMentors based on their expressed needs, including professional and extracurricular interests.

vMentors make a two-year commitment to email their mentees on a weekly basis.  Mentoring is done online using the secure portal, and all communication is monitored by case workers to ensure participant safety.

Mentors receive pre-service and ongoing training and support as they work with their mentees on issues such as goal planning, course selection and career guidance, and strategies for success in school and in the workplace.

vMentor Eligibility Requirements

• vMentors must be 25 years of age or older
• They must be established in a profession or career; vMentors are recruited from all walks of life; they are tradesmen, artisans, homemakers, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
• Anyone is welcome to apply; however, currently the vMentor Program has a particular need for African American and Latino men.
• vMentors must participate in quarterly training sessions
• vMentors are expected to complete biannual surveys on their mentoring relationships.

vMentor Application Process

• Applicants must complete an online application that includes questions about their background, education, work experience, hobbies and interests, etc.
• They must submit professional and personal references
• They must pass a criminal records check

Submitting an application does not guarantee being matched with a mentee, and if an applicant is not immediately matched it is in no way a reflection of their abilities or credentials but only of the program.

Click here to apply.

Student Voices

"This was one of the best experiences in my life. My vMentor is such a positive light. I feel connected to him, and he has offered me much insight into success."

            * * *

"I keep in contact with an online mentor who I absolutely love. She is happy to hear about my life and cares how I am from day to day. She worries when i am feeling down and gives great advice when I ask for it. She encourages me when I'm unsure of myself and even remembers my birthday with a card. most of all, she keeps in touch so that when i check my e-mail, I can always count on having a letter from her. Just that kind of devotion means so much to a former foster child."

            * * *

"My mentor has exceeded all expectations I could have ever had. Without her support, I know that my first year at the university would not have been as fruitful as it has been. Her emails cheered me up and gave me the support that other students are blessed with to receive from their parents. Though i will probably never meet my mentor,  I would like to thank her for supporting me. i would also like to thank OFA for finding her for me."

           * * *

"Thanks for always being there when I need you and always keeping me strong and motivated. I couldn't have asked for a better role model and supporter than you. You never judged me and always kept honest; your words kept me out of danger and stood in my mind like a library. I love you and wish you the best in life and in spirit."

From a Mentor:

“My experience with my mentee is already extremely valuable.  We have a great rapport and we trust each other enough to be honest with our feelings and views. I have learned so much from her, and I only hope that she can say the same. The guidance and information you gave me concerning her pursuing her nursing career at a community college was wonderful and supportive.  I love being part of this!”