Mentors

Veteran Mentors will work to ensure that every participating veteran in the Shelby County Veterans Court program is linked with a fellow veteran who acts as a volunteer mentor, advocate, and ally to help the participants successfully readjust to civilian life.

Recruitment Policy

The VC Mentor & Resource Coordinator assumes the majority of the responsibility for recruiting new mentors.  The VC team, its collaborative partners and current veteran mentors are strongly encouraged to refer highly respectable and reputable veterans to the VC Mentor Program.  Additionally, VC team members and veteran mentors are strongly encouraged to attend and host informational sessions and training for perspective mentors

Recognition and Awards

Veteran Mentor Desirable Qualities:

• Active listener
• Empathetic
• Encouraging and supportive
• Positive military service
• Tolerant and respectful of individual differences
• Knowledge of community resources and services

Inquiry:  All inquiries about participating as a Veteran Mentor will be directed to the Mentor Coordinator, who will respond to any prospective mentor inquires.

The VC relies on cooperation and collaboration among the criminal justice system, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, veteran’s service organizations, and community treatment agencies to provide comprehensive treatment for veterans.  In addition to these entities, the Court also utilizes veteran mentors.  Veteran mentors are veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who volunteer their time to assist the Court, providing advice, personal experiences, recommendations and guidance to veterans. 

Mission Statement:  Veteran Mentors will work to ensure that every participating veteran in the Shelby County Veterans Court program is linked with a fellow veteran who acts as a volunteer mentor, advocate, and ally to help the participants successfully readjust to civilian life