April has arrived and that means the end of the school year is just around the corner. While it may sound surprising, this is the perfect time to think about your fall plans and start closure discussions with your mentee. The great news is that the steps for closure...
Understanding Trauma
Emotional and psychological trauma is the result of extraordinarily stressful events that shatter one’s sense of security. As mentors, understanding the effects of trauma is important in becoming a positive advocate for your mentee. Emotionally traumatic events such...
How to Have Better Conversations
In her book, We Need to Talk, How to Have Conversations, author and public speaker, Celeste Headlee, promotes a list of basic rules for having a good conversation. These simple rules are ideal reminders for mentors who may be hoping for more connection with their...
Let’s Talk About Bullying
Some experiences of youth are universal. One of the more difficult challenges that all kids encounter is to face or witness bullying. Bullying stems from a power imbalance and can come in a variety of behaviors that can manifest...
Press Release 2.17.2022 Study Confirms Mentoring Makes a Significant Difference in Youth Overcoming Pandemic-related Challenges
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Julie Barschow, Director of Development(512) 323-6371 (phone)julie@seedlingmentors.org Study Confirms Mentoring Makes a Significant Difference in Youth Overcoming Pandemic-related Challenges Austin, TX – February 17, 2022 –...
A Primer on Pronouns and Gender Identity
More youth are identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community than ever before in American history. A recent study found that as many as 1 in 4 young people identify as “nonbinary”, meaning outside of male or female. Additionally, 1 in 5 young...
Mentor Support
Last month, Seedling Mentors had the opportunity to meet virtually with Mentor Directors and fellow mentors to share experiences, ask questions and offer support during Mentor Support Lunches. These meetings were offered on various dates in January and we were pleased...
Strengthening our Mentoring Muscles
To keep in tiptop mentoring shape, why not set a goal for 2022 to strengthen your mentoring muscles and continue to be the best mentor you can be? By focusing on this goal, you are on the path to re-energize your mentoring intentions. To start, one must simply go...
Reconnecting with your Mentee
Establishing a reconnection with your mentee after a break (holidays, summer, illness, etc.) is essential to nurturing your mentoring match. Whether you and your mentee have been matched for a few months or several years, there are steps you can take as a mentor to...
How to Be an Ally
Whether you’ve been with your mentee for a few weeks or several years, there are always ways you can show up for them and provide support. We learned that ally is not a title or identity one can claim, rather it’s an ongoing practice that you...