Best practices in mentoring

I’m sometimes amused when I hear from someone who asks me in amazement… you mean you get paid for working with a mentoring program? It’s as if they thought that since mentors were volunteers these relationships should simply happen without any paid staff or the necessary infrastructure. I’m quick to reply that much like operating an adoption agency, to do quality mentoring is not quick, easy or free.

Recently MENTOR released their third edition of Elements of Effective Practice for Mentoring. Some of the key practices include recruitment, screening, orientation, training, matching, follow-up support, recognition and closure of relationships. To do all of these practices commonly require professional staff, which in turn requires funding.

The backbone of mentoring relies on the kindness of volunteers to befriend kids in need. However without a strong infrastructure even the most enthusiastic efforts are likely to fail. Kinship’s had over 50 years to evolve its programming, and it continues to evolve. Having matches that last on average well over three years is an indicator of the value of our effective practices.

I'm proud that Kinship models the elements of effective practice. Thanks to all who provide funding and volunteer support to make this possible!