SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – In honor of Volunteer Appreciation Month, Tahoe Youth and Family Services (TYFS) is proud to highlight and expand its Elevate Youth Tahoe Volunteer Mentoring Program, an initiative that connects local youth with caring adult mentors to strengthen community well‑being through meaningful, one‑on‑one relationships.

The Elevate Youth Tahoe Volunteer Mentoring Program pairs youth with trained adult mentors who provide consistent support, encouragement, and positive role modeling. These relationships help youth build confidence, stability, and healthy decision‑making skills during critical stages of development.

Mentoring plays an important role in substance use prevention by offering young people a trusted connection and a reliable source of guidance. Through a trauma-informed, youth-centered approach, the program supports resilience, goal-setting, and personal growth while fostering a sense of belonging and connection.

TYFS is currently seeking community members interested in serving as volunteer mentors. Mentors can commit to meeting with youth weekly or monthly, offering flexibility while making a meaningful impact. The organization is also accepting referrals for youth who may benefit from additional support and positive adult connections.

Mentor‑youth matches are thoughtfully made based on shared interests and compatibility, and participants receive ongoing support throughout the program. With summer approaching, the program is looking forward to group activities and opportunities that foster connection and relationship‑building among participants.

Together, the community can make a lasting difference—one relationship at a time.

If you are interested in volunteering, referring a youth, or learning more about the Elevate Youth Tahoe Volunteer Mentoring Program, please contact Hallie Leaventon at hleaventon@tahoeyouth.org or call TYFS at 530-541-2445.