Mentoring for IDOC

Free2Succeed is the Idaho Department of Correction's mentorship initiative. Mentoring returning citizens through critical and often difficult times will not only provide necessary guidance and support but also, quite possibly, for their loved ones. Mentors come from all walks of life, all ages, and a variety of economic, social, and educational backgrounds. As a mentor with the IDOC you will help fulfill our mission to create a model correctional system that provides opportunities that reflect a community experience and foster connections by:

• being part of the resident's support system and ensuring a successful transition into Idaho's communities.
• providing accountability, trust, and a positive relationship where none may otherwise exist.
• developing partnerships with IDOC staff, faith-based organizations, and other community support groups and services.
• creating opportunities for residents that reflect a community experience and encourage positive change.
• providing comfort and encouragement through difficult and stressful times.
• ensuring the resident attends and completes required programs, and seeks positive activities to develop social and problem-solving skills.
• being a positive and pro-social connection and introducing residents to other pro-social individuals.

How do you get started as a mentor?

1. Submit a Mentor Application - you DO NOT need to complete a background check.
2. Attend Mentor Training and Orientation (ITO). You may start mentoring before completing the training provided you attend the next available training opportunity
3. You will be contacted by Free2Succeed regarding mentoring in the respective district where you reside.
4. Wait to be matched with a mentee. Depending on a number of circumstances, it may require some time to find an individual that meets the criteria for you to mentor, for example: someone to released to your city or area, gender, age, etc.

Mentor expectations

• Commit to the program and the mentee
• Act as a role model
• Support, guide, encourage, teach, and coach
• Motivate and demonstrate
• Identify opportunities for growth and progress
• Provide information and help connect with community resources
• Develop partnerships and working relationships with staff
• Attend mentor training