Why Mentoring?

Mentor game

What Makes a Good Mentor?

Most of us have had a teacher, supervisor, or coach who has been a mentor to us and made a positive difference in our lives. Those people wore many hats, acting as delegators, role models, cheerleaders, policy enforcers, advocates, and friends. Mentors assume these different roles during the course of a relationship, and share some basic qualities:

  • A sincere desire to be involved with a young person
  • Respect for young people
  • Active listening skills
  • Empathy
  • Ability to see solutions and opportunities
  • Flexibility

Mentoring Statistics

52%

With a mentor, percent of at-risk youth less likely than their peers to skip school.

130%

With a mentor, percent of at-risk youth more likely to hold a leadership position in a club or sport.

55%

With a mentor, percent of at risk youth more likely to be enrolled in college.

mentor stem
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Become an Iowa MENTOR

Ready to make a difference? Sign up to become an Iowa MENTOR and make a difference in the lives of people across the state. Get started today and explore how mentoring will change your life.

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Why Mentoring?

Connecting with Kids Can Make a Big Difference

Whether we have our own kids or not, we can make an effort to connect with the young people in our lives. Kids do better — much better — when they feel they are surrounded by caring adults.

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