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What is Mentoring? | Who Can Mentor? | Does it Work?
What is Mentoring?
"Mentoring is a trusting and structured 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." (source, www.mentoring.org)
Mentoring is important because it provides a young person with someone who cares about them. Without this, unfortunately, some children are more likely to do poorly in school, have low self esteem, and can be prone to engage in criminal activity.
The good news however, is that a mentor can reverse these trends simply by providing a child with the assurance that they are not alone. Mentors can provide support in all aspects of a child's life including school, relationships with their peers, setting positive and healthy goals for the future, and can even help a child to get away from the stresses of everyday life to have a little fun!
Who Can Mentor?
- Mentors must be good listeners
- Mentors must have an average of four hours available per month
- Mentors must commit to mentoring for 6 to 12 months
- Mentors must have a true desire to be involved with a young person
- Mentors must also be flexible, respectful, and importantly, fun!
There can be many challenges to being a good mentor, but the results can be just as great. Our partner programs offer many different types of mentoring to suit all schedules and personalities. To learn more about individual programs visit their websites listed on our Partners page or send us an email.
Does it Work?
YES! Research has shown that mentoring is a great way to prevent drug use, lower violence, and reduce recidivism in children and youth. Here are some recent findings; remember, statistics can only capture a small part of the magic of mentoring.
(more information can be found by visiting the programs on our links page)
A recent survey by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath / Brunswick found the following:
- 64% of students developed more positive attitudes toward school
- 58% achieved higher grades in social studies, languages, and math
- 60% improved relationships with adults
- 56% improved relationships with peers
- 55% were better able to express their feelings
- 64% developed higher levels of self-confidence
- 62% were more likely to trust their teachers
"Maine counties" facts taken from the Maine Kids Count 2006 Data Book, available for viewing at www.mekids.org
