Extending the Mentoring Relationship

Connecting to Success limits communication between mentors and mentees to e-mails and structured meetings at the school or employment site. These boundaries facilitate youth development and provide safety for both mentors and mentees. Yet in some cases, the mentor and mentee may agree that they would like to extend their mentoring relationship to a traditional, one-on-one mentoring relationship. When this occurs, mentors should contact an organization that can facilitate the relationship and serve as an intermediary. Such facilitating organizations usually provide structure, facilitate dialogue with parents, provide training for mentors, and promote safety for both mentors and progétés. One national organization that facilitates traditional mentoring relationships is Big Brother/Big Sister of America. There may also be other mentoring organizations in your local area.