YouthFriends is a school-based mentoring effort that links caring adult volunteers from the community with students in schools and is open to all students, grades K-12, within participating school districts. All activities take place on school grounds before, during or after school hours. YouthFriends volunteers typically visit a school for one hour each week to do things like have lunch with a student, help with reading or academic tutoring, share an interest or a hobby or simply listen.

Click here to view the Platte County R-III District schools that participate in YouthFriends.

Reading Pal
Help students in grades K-7 practice and improve reading skills so they can gain the confidence necessary to be successful readers. Work with students one-to-one or in small group relationships for a minimum of one semester. Classroom teachers or reading specialists usually monitor student progress. Specialized one-hour mandatory supplemental training provided free-of-charge.

Classroom Helper
YouthFriend volunteers are matched with classrooms by teacher. Volunteers work with an individual child or small group.

Mentor/Tutor
Help one child develop skills and confidence necessary to succeed in school.