One type of relationship that brings me a signficiant amount of joy is a mentoring relationship. I think of mentoring relationships as mutual mentorships- a term I learned from my friend Jill- whether or not I am in the offical role of mentor or mentee, both of us in the partnership always gain various things from the relationship. I appreciate mentoring relationships because they call for thoughtful conversations, for reflection, for vision, for dreaming, for experiencing.
A couple weeks ago, I went out to lunch with the Communications and Social Media Manager at our local Goodwill. I learned a lot about Goodwill including about their new GoodGuides program which is a national program that will serve 100 youth locally.
The goal of the program is to help youth build career plans and skills, and prepare for school completion, post-secondary training and productive work by providing structured and supportive relationships with trusted adult mentors. It targets youths between the ages of 12 and 17 who are at-risk for dropping out of school, facing legal troubles, or are at risk for delinquency due to issues such as abuse, disability, drug or alcohol dependence, or gang membership. What a meaningful way to engage with a young person, learn more about yourself, help your community and yourself.
Think you might be game to serve as a mentor? Call 704-372-3434 or visit the web-site to learn more and fill out an application.
While you are at it, check out the local Goodwill’s new blog. They even have a contest on there for some sessions with a professional organizer!
Thanks so much for the shout-out, Rosie! We’re excited to see the GoodGuides program start to really make a difference for both the mentors and the mentees. Love the “mutual mentorship” concept–it’s so true!