Mentors volunteer for one hour a week, during the school day (summers, holidays, and winter break are off!).

Our minimum commitment is one school year (two semesters), but we welcome and encourage matches to continue meeting year after year. Some of our matches have been together for over twelve years!

Student safety is our utmost priority, and Thrive carefully screens each mentor to ensure that they can be placed with a student. In order to become a volunteer, applicants must pass a criminal background check, as well as participate in a thirty minute interview. The screening process typically takes anywhere between 3-6 hours. The process helps us keep students safe and allows us to set up successful matches that are beneficial for students and mentors alike.

First year mentors undergo a three-hour long mandatory training in Fall and Spring, both of which cover mentoring basics, school site expectations and strategies for working with a mentee. Mentors will sign up for training dates during their interview session.

CAP mentors receive ongoing support via their school's CAP Coordinator. CAP Coordinators are experienced Thrive professionals who work with school staff and social work specialists to provide you with comprehensive support for the duration of your match.

Yes, the CAP program supports Bozeman and Big Sky public school district students in grades K-12. If you have an interest in working with a certain age group, be sure to inform our team during your mentor interview.

No, due to the sensitive nature of working with minors, we are unable to match all applicants with a mentee.

CAP is a 'school-based' program, which means that matches must remain on school grounds, unless the student is attending Bozeman High School (BHS has an 'open campus') and has specific parent permission to visit public locations within walking distance of the school with their mentor.

Play chess. Conduct experiments. Shoot hoops. Listen to music. Work on homework. Apply for jobs. Get coffee. These are just a few of the things you can do with your CAP student, depending on their age group. Your CAP Coordinator will support you with activity ideas and individual student needs throughout your match.

Mentors must be at least 18 years of age. Anyone aged 18 and over can apply! We welcome students, professionals, and retirees alike!