Demand for FIRST® has increased so rapidly and organically that it continues to face a growing challenge to sustain the infrastructure needed to support this growth. Founded in 2005, the FIRST® Senior Mentor program prides itself in its cross-program, grass-roots approach. Through outreach events, expositions and demonstrations they are able to attract new Volunteers, Mentors and Coaches to sustain and support both rookie and veteran  teams.

The FIRST® Senior Mentor program is a critical addition to an organization that needs people on the ground, working in a hands-on environment, filling  in the gaps of support to whomever and whatever is needed. FIRST® Senior Mentors, or FSMs, are both technical and non-technical individuals and bring  with them a vast array of background and experience.

FIRST® Senior Mentors are recruited through a cross-program nomination process that occurs locally at the collaborative recommendation of their Regional Directors and Partners because of their previous relationships with FIRST Programs and their general understanding of the culture of FIRST®. Most, if not all FSMs have had existing relations with FIRST® as Team Mentors, Coaches or event Volunteers. They work in a part-time capacity, (10-15 hours per week), in constant communication and collaboration with each Program Lead; their area Regional Director, Regional/Planning/Operational Committees, Program Partners, and VISTA Volunteers (if applicable).

To learn more about our Senior Mentor Program fill out this form.

Please fill out this form and specify the FIRST® program for which you would like to volunteer.