Realizing that the majority of Kunsmiller students are Latino, it was agreed that the program should support a student's cultural identity. The ECCOS Family Center/Kunsmiller Mentor Program is culturally based and seeks to connect youth with mentors of similar ethnic and cultural background, thus promoting cultural identity, self-awareness, and positive self-esteem of each student participating in the program. The mentor program realizes that the importance of positive self-esteem is crucial to the student's academic success.

SUPPORT GROUPS AT KUNSMILLER

Beginning in February, 2005, ECCOS is offering support groups for eighth graders at Kunsmiller Middle School. The support groups will assist students to develop skills in the following areas:

• Character development

• Self-esteem

• Relationship building

• Anger management

• General social skills

Students build these skills in order to aid in their transition to high school. Students are screened before entering the program, and mental health referrals are made if necessary.

VISION

Students attending Kunsmiller will stay in school and proceed to high school. This vision will be realized by supporting the healthy development of youth, which includes cultural identity, positive peer groups, strong family support, as well as educational goals.

WHAT MAKES A MENTOR?

Mentors are adults, who have had more experience in life, and can support and guide students to make healthy, appropriate decisions in life. Additionally, mentors can also offer friendship and guidance. Mentors participate in recreational activities with the student, assist them in setting goals for the future, and encourage students to graduate from high school, while promoting the importance of their cultural identity.

WHAT ACTIVITIES DO MENTORS AND STUDENTS DO TOGETHER?

• Explore educational and career options

• Attend cultural events, such as plays, concerts

• Attend extra curricular school events

• Colleges visits and fairs

• Attend community functions

• Build a healthy and respectful relationship.

COMMITMENT

• Length of mentorship should be at least one year

• At least two personal contacts a month & weekly contact by phone

• Complete CBI and background check

• Attend mentor training

• Meet with the parents/families of the student at least once every three months (special events will be pre-arranged)

FUNDED BY:

The Colorado Department of Education/Denver Public Schools, DPS/Safe & Drug Free Schools & Communities.

WHO PROVIDES THE PROGRAM?

ECCOS Family Center and Kunsmiller Middle School came together to develop a mentoring program to help students achieve their academic potential. ECCOS Family Center is a nonprofit agency founded in response to the social and educational needs of youth and families in the Latino Community. Source: www.eccosfamilycenter.org