Mentors

He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us.

2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Mentors - Survivor Mentor Program

Mentoring is about relationships, community and acceptance. Mentors provide a safe person to talk to, share needs, dreams and goals with and begin the healing process. Survivor mentors also provide an example of a positive role model and display hope to overcome.

A mentor-mentee relationship entails work, commitment and follow through on both sides if it's going to be successful. Consider the following traits to assess your mentoring skills and areas that you wish to develop to ensure that the mentoring you offer is effective and has lasting value.

Characteristics of Excellent Mentors

Good listener/sounding board
Flexible
Value diversity of perspectives
Knowledgeable
Nonjudgmental
Able to give constructive feedback
Honest and candid
Encouraging and inspiring
Willing and able to devote time to developing others
Help mentee clarify what they want to accomplish and set a realistic timeline
Eager to learn and be open to receive ongoing training and education

Mentor Requirements

A graduate of Shelter from the Storm© recovery program from ARISE! International
Growing in your personal relationship with Jesus Christ
Attendance and participation in the Survivor Mentor group
Open to ongoing training (TBA)
Time commitment to volunteer eight weeks

Mentor Responsibilities

Make initial contact
Weekly check ins (based on mentee's comfortability and the agreement between mentor and mentee contacts can be made by phone, text or video)
Center discussion around what is being learned in the support group
Set and maintain healthy boundaries
Offer hope, support and encouragement
Share your journey when applicable
Encourage mentee to set goals for recovery
Provide feedback on mentee's progress
Contact ARISE! if problems develop

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the time commitment a mentor can expect to make?

We ask that a mentor be prepared to make an eight week commitment to their mentoring relationship after they have been matched with a mentee.

2. How many survivors would a mentor be matched with at one time?

A mentor will be matched with only one survivor at a time.

3. What does a mentor do? What kinds of activities are involved?

A mentor's role is to offer hope, support and to encourage a survivor on her healing journey. This support is provided in the context of a committed, faithful and positive relationship. NOTE: It is important for mentors to communicate and meet regular with the survivor they are matched with.

If the mentor and mentee reside in the same city, options exist, as these meetings can occur at coffee shops, restaurants, parks as well as by phone, text or video. In distance learning situations the meetings can be by phone, text or video depending on the agreement between both mentor and mentee. The practical support, prayer and encouragement a mentor provides can help to bring hope and healing over time.

4. How can I build trust with my mentee?

Trust is built over time. You will increase trust by keeping your conversations and other communications confidential, honoring your scheduled meetings and calls, consistently showing interest and support, and by being honest.

Yes, I would like to mentor!