Wonder Mentoring Program

Wonder is a one-on-one mentoring program designed to support youth impacted by foster care, including those in adoption, guardianship, kinship care, and foster placements, by connecting them with consistent, caring adults.

Mentors are there to listen, support, and guide youth through fun, age-appropriate experiences that foster connection and growth. Youth in the program are called “Explorers,” and the adults who volunteer as mentors are called “Guides.” Together, they engage in meaningful experiences filled with “Wonder moments.”

Matches are made intentionally, based on information gathered to support strong alignment and connection between each Explorer and Guide. This thoughtful approach helps build relationships that are responsive to each youth’s unique needs, strengths, and interests. A Wonder Guide may be one of the most consistent adults in a young person’s life.

There is a minimum twelve-month commitment to ensure stability and continuity in the relationship. All Guides are adults, 21 years and older, who have completed a thorough application and screening process and are committed to mentorship, collaboration, and making a positive impact.

Ongoing support is provided throughout the match by a Wonder coach to ensure both the Guide and Explorer are thriving. This includes guidance and support that helps strengthen the relationship and promote growth across four key domains: sense of belonging, self-confidence, self-worth, and future orientation.

“Joining Wonder means making a commitment to another person and being the “fun” you wish to see in the world. It means nurturing a child who needs support and is growing every day. It means helping make a difference in someone’s childhood in a small, but important way.”

- Tish, Wonder Mentor; Matched 2 Years