What is Mentoring?

A matter of trust. Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee. A mentor is an adult who, along with parents, provides a young person with support, counsel, friendship, reinforcement and constructive example. Mentors are good listeners, people who care, people who want to help young people bring out strengths that are already there. A mentor is not a foster parent, therapist, parole officer, or cool peer.

Mentoring can help by:

• Improving young people’s attitudes towards their parents, peers and teachers;
• Encouraging students to stay motivated and focused on their education;
• Providing a positive way for young people to spend free time;
• Helping young people face daily challenges; and
• Offering young people opportunities to consider new career paths and get much-needed economic skills and knowledge.