Raleigh Police Department Mentorship Program

Overview

The RPD Mentorship Program connects Raleigh’s youth with positive role models who provide guidance, encouragement, and support. The program is part of the Raleigh Police Department’s Community Impact and Engagement Division, which houses the department's Youth Services Unit. This units’ efforts to strengthen relationships, support character development, reinforce educational goals, and empower young people to make positive life choices.

Mentors serve as trusted adults who help youth build confidence, resilience, and strong community connections through structured activities, one-on-one engagement, and collaborative partnerships.

Program Goals

The RPD Mentorship Program seeks to:

• Foster trusting relationships between youth and law enforcement;
• Provide positive adult role models;
• Encourage academic engagement and social development;
• Connect youth with community resources; and,
• Support safe, inclusive, and vibrant neighborhoods.

What Mentorship Looks Like

Mentors work with youth throughout the year to provide consistent support. Activities may include:

• Guidance at community centers;
• Academic and life-skills encouragement;
• Participation in supervised activities such as sports, field trips, and leadership events;
• Connecting families with community resources; and,
• Modeling civic responsibility and service.

Program Activities

Program offerings may include:

Community Center Mentorship Support – Retired Raleigh Police officers and trained volunteers engage youth through structured programs.

Field Trips and Enrichment Events – Activities that broaden experiences and strengthen mentor-youth connections.

Collaborative Youth Programs – Support for camps, leadership development, and enrichment programs.

Who Can Participate

The RPD Mentorship Program welcomes:

• Youth participating in Raleigh Parks and community center programs;
• Mentors are current or retired employees with the City of Raleigh or the Raleigh Police Department.; and,
• Volunteer Organizations seeking to collaborate to positively impact Raleigh’s youth.

Activities are designed to meet the needs of participants while supporting RPD’s community-focused mission.

Contact Information

To learn more about the RPD Mentorship Program or how to get involved:

Email: youthandfamilyservices@raleighnc.gov