The City of Falls Church is looking for volunteers to participate in an after-school program created by the Falls Church City Alliance for Youth in partnership with the Northern Virginia Family Service.

Adult men especially are needed to mentor young men; enough women have volunteered to mentor young women. The next mentor orientation is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 16, so those interested should call soon. The 1-2-1 Mentoring program is designed to assist youth with building the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that prepare them to be healthy, productive, and contributing members of their communities now and in the future. Youth in the program are matched with an adult volunteer mentor who will act as a role model and source of friendship and encouragement.

Through the development of a consistent and goal-oriented relationship under the supervision of NVFS’ program coordinator, mentors and mentees will complete school assignments together, practice social and life skills, discuss issues of importance to the mentee, and participate in recreational activities. Volunteer mentors should be 21 years old and above and be able to volunteer for a minimum of one year.

They will receive thorough training and will meet their mentees each Thursday from 4-6 p.m. at the Falls Church Community Center, 223 Little Falls St. For more information about the 1-2-1 Mentoring Program, contact Monica Arispe, program coordinator, at 703-219-2106 or marispe@nvfs.org .