Molding Young Minds Mind Lion logoMolding Young MindsDenby High School · Detroit
Youth Protection

Safety & Background Checks

The safety of every student is the foundation of Molding Young Minds. Every adult who works directly with our youth — teachers, mentors, coaches, and volunteers — must complete a background check and safety screening before participating in the program.

Our Safety Promise

We do not allow any adult to work one-on-one or in small groups with students until their background check has been cleared and they have completed our safety orientation. No exceptions.

Partner Session Code of Conduct

We are proud to work alongside Don't Engage in Road Rage, founded by Sights, an organization that helps people stay calm behind the wheel and avoid aggressive driving. They endorse our mission and agree with the way we teach young people to lead with patience, respect, and self-control — both on the road and in everyday life.

When representing Molding Young Minds alongside our partner organizations, every participant, mentor, and student leader is expected to stay calm, respectful, and focused on our mission. In a session with our partner, do not engage in road rage, aggressive driving, or confrontational behavior before, during, or after any event. How we carry ourselves reflects on the entire program.

  • No road rage or aggressive behavior in vehicles or on the road.
  • Stay respectful and professional with all partners and guests.
  • De-escalate conflicts and bring concerns to program staff.

Emergency & Crisis Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911 right away. For non-emergency help, these local numbers are available 24/7 or during business hours.

Save these numbers in your phone. In a session or on the street, it is always okay to ask for help.

Complete Application

Every prospective mentor, teacher, and adult volunteer submits a full application with contact information, professional background, and references.

Background Check

We run a comprehensive background check through a trusted, licensed provider. This includes criminal history and sex offender registry checks.

Reference Review

Our team contacts personal and professional references to confirm character, experience, and suitability for working with youth.

Safety Orientation

Approved adults attend a safety orientation covering youth protection, mentorship boundaries, and program expectations before working with students.

Ongoing Screening

Background checks are renewed on a regular schedule. Any change in status is reviewed immediately to keep students safe.

Confidential Records

All background check results and personal information are kept confidential, stored securely, and only shared with authorized program staff on a need-to-know basis.

Questions About the Process?

If you are interested in becoming a mentor or volunteer and want to learn more about background checks, or if you are a parent with a safety concern, please reach out to us directly.

This page is maintained by Molding Young Minds to answer common safety questions about our youth mentorship program. Screening requirements and procedures may be updated as our program grows.