Training has begun for those interested in mentoring high school-aged foster youth in the new Higher Education Mentoring Initiative (HEMI).

The first session took place 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29. The second was scheduled for Sept. 8 and 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Those interested in the initiative may contact Annie Dick at 513-556-4368 or annie.dick@uc.edu.

HEMI seeks to reduce delinquency and help prepare foster children for post-secondary education.

The initiative is a partnership between Hamilton County and the University of Cincinnati's Partner for Achieving Academic Success (PASS) program in the College of Education, Criminal Justice and Human Services. It is recruiting, training and supporting mentors to establish long-term, positive relationships with about 25 Hamilton County foster youth each year.

Mentors will assist, encourage and support academic achievement in high school, as well as post-secondary educational institutions.

Mentors commit to a long-[term mentoring relationship with a minimum of two hours per week of personal interaction with mentees.