Mentor Roles

Now we'll explore the roles of a mentor. First, let's look at the qualities of a successful mentor.

A successful mentor...

• Respects young people
• Listens actively
• Empathizes
• Sees solutions and opportunities
• Is flexible, open and approachable
• Is honest and non-judgmental
• Knows how to have fun
• Is persistent and committed
• Shows a great deal of patience
• Has a support system to vent frustrations regarding their mentor role
• Is resourceful and can access information in the community

These are just a few qualities of a good mentor. Use these ideas to think of other desirable attributes.

We've identified some qualities of a successful mentor. Now let's define the mentor's role even more sharply by looking at what a mentor is...and is not

A mentor is...

• A trusted guide or friend
• A caring, responsible adult who provides access to people, places and things outside their mentee's routine environment
• A positive role model

A mentor is not...

• A parent/legal guardian. The role of the parent/guardian is to provide food, shelter and clothing. A mentor does not fulfill these responsibilities.
• A social worker. A social worker is a licensed professional with skills and training to assist in family issues. A mentor shouldn't attempt to solve family problems.
• A psychologist. A mentor isn't a formal "counselor" or therapist.