Become a Mentor

At Modesto Gospel Mission, we believe that Spiritual Mentors play a crucial role in our Discipleship Program (New Life Program, NLP). Mentors provide support during challenging times, help set goals, connect individuals to a faith-based community, and offer stability when thoughts of relapse arise.

Spiritual Mentors guide NLP participants in their journey of new life, assisting them in deepening their personal relationship with Jesus. To volunteer, mentors must meet the following requirements:

• Personal Faith: Must have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, be active in a local church, and possess a mature understanding of Biblical principles (references required).
• Active Recovery: Must be in active recovery with a minimum of 2 years clean. (If the Mentor has a recovery background.)
• Substance Use Policy: Mentors should not consume alcohol (while with mentee) or downplay its dangers.
• Meeting Commitment: Meet physically with the disciple twice a month and communicate weekly.

Mentors do not diagnose or treat addiction but focus on future goals, helping NLP participants navigate challenges associated with recovery, faith and life in general. They assist in problem-solving, encourage goal setting, and empower individuals to make Christ-centered choices. Mentors also play a role in relapse prevention and must refer participants to their Chaplain for program-related issues.

Holistic Approach We believe true recovery involves addressing physical, mental, and spiritual health, and mentors are encouraged to support the whole person from a Biblical perspective.

Becoming a Mentor Interested in becoming a Spiritual Mentor? All mentors commit to a 9–12-month partnership and must complete the following steps:

• Application
• Interview
• Mentee Assignment

• Investment: A mentor should be honest, vulnerable, and lead a life worthy of imitation. (As we imitate Christ)
• Curiosity: Great mentors ask questions, listen actively, and prioritize the mentee’s voice.
• Growth: Mentors should demonstrate consistent growth in their own faith and engage in prayer and Bible study with their mentee.
• Clear Expectations: Setting expectations for the mentoring relationship fosters clarity and understanding.
• Friendship: The best mentoring relationships develop into lifelong friendships, providing accountability and support.

Please free to contact the Director of Men’s Program’s with any questions or other ways to get involved. We appreciate your considering the investment into the lives of the men we are blessed to serve in the New Life Program.

Zack Gentry | Director of Men’s Programs | 209-225-2923 | zack@mymission.org

Anna Pedroza-Garcia | Director of Men’s Programs | 209-225-2915 | anna@mymission.org