Mentors

Mentoring can be one of the most satisfying and rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. You may be uncertain about what mentoring involves or whether you have the background and experience to succeed at mentoring. Many people considering mentoring often have these concerns and wonder what it’s all about.

What is mentoring?

Mentoring is the one-to-one or group relationship that one or more adults develop with one or more young people to help them develop and succeed. Mentoring is most effective when it’s a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement.

The word “mentor” comes from the Greek word for “steadfast” and “enduring.” Mentors are caring adults who are committed, responsible, and good listeners. You don’t need any special skills, just a sincere interest in the success of our youth and a caring attitude. There are many different types of programs to suit everyone’s needs and busy schedules. Mass Mentoring Partnership has more than 200 organizations in our network, and we can help you find the perfect match!

Here are some common mentoring classifications:

• Site-based: Mentoring takes place at a specific location, such as a community agency, school, or workplace. Mentors and mentees meet at the same designated meeting place.
• Community-based: The mentor and mentee can meet anywhere they choose, such as events, museums, etc.

Why should I mentor?

Simply put, because you can make a difference in a child’s life, as well as your own. Consider the many benefits that mentoring offers: enhancing academic success, improving workforce readiness, reducing juvenile crime, increasing self-esteem, revealing new opportunities and career paths for youth, and strengthening communities.

What is the time commitment?

Each mentoring program is different and you should check with the programs you’re interested in. For reference, in most community-based programs, mentors are asked to spend a minimum of four hours with their mentee each month for the duration of one year. In a school-based program, mentors and mentees meet on site for an hour each week during a school calendar year (typically nine months).

What are the requirements?

It depends on the program, but most programs require mentors to be at least 21-years-old and able to commit to at least a year. Almost all programs require some sort of background check.

I don’t know how to start or what I’ll do with my mentee

Don’t worry! We’re here to help. We can help you find a program, or you can search our directory for a program near you. Once you find a mentoring program that fits your needs, the program will provide all the support and knowledge you need to have a successful relationship with your mentee.

Ready to begin?

I want to be a mentor, but I need MMP to suggest programs for me
I want to be a mentor, but I want to search for mentoring programs near me

Resources for potential mentors:

• FAQ about mentoring
• Common mentor concerns
• How to be a better mentor
• Check out our match activities page for fun activities you can do with your mentee once you’re matched!