Status: founding-year draft. This document reflects YDLC's current founding-stage plans and policies. It will be updated as the organization formalizes.
Mentor Handbook
Welcome Mentors
Mentors are central to YDLC's mission. You provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world perspective to young leaders.
1. Role of a Mentor
Mentors:
- Support youth participants weekly or biweekly
- Provide guidance on projects and leadership growth
- Share real-world experience
- Encourage reflection and confidence
- Help participants set goals
2. Mentor Expectations
Mentors should:
- Be consistent in communication
- Be respectful and supportive
- Avoid directing personal decisions
- Focus on guidance, not instruction
- Maintain professional boundaries
3. Mentorship Model
YDLC uses a "Guided Growth Model."
Meaning:
- Mentors support thinking, not doing
- Youth remain decision-makers
- Mentors act as accountability and reflection partners
4. Safeguarding Requirements
Mandatory:
- No private unsupervised communication with participants
- Use official program channels
- Report concerns immediately
- Follow all safeguarding policies
5. Meeting Structure
Typical mentorship sessions:
- Check-in (10 min)
- Project discussion (20–30 min)
- Reflection (10 min)
- Action steps (5 min)
6. Support for Mentors
YDLC provides:
- Mentor onboarding
- Session guidance
- Communication templates
- Program coordination support
7. Ending Mentorship
Mentorship may end:
- At program completion
- By mentor request
- By program administration if needed
Contact
For mentor support, reach YDLC through the Contact page. For safety concerns, see our Safety & concerns page.