Young people benefit from consistent relationships with adults who listen, maintain appropriate boundaries and encourage them to develop their own strengths.
What effective mentorship provides
A mentor can offer perspective, model healthy decision-making and help a young person explore interests or goals.
The relationship should be dependable and age-appropriate, with clear expectations and safeguarding practices.
Listen without taking over
Young people are more likely to speak honestly when they are not immediately interrupted, judged or given a complete solution.
Questions such as “What do you think your options are?” can help build independent judgment.
Positive community connections
Sports, arts, volunteering, school activities and community programs can create a sense of belonging and expose young people to supportive adults and peers.
Access matters. Programs should consider transportation, cost, disability, scheduling and cultural inclusion.
Online and offline safety
Safety conversations should cover privacy, online contact, transportation plans, emergency contacts and how to seek help when something feels wrong.
Regular calm conversations are generally more effective than a single warning after a problem.
Protect privacy
Stories about youth should not identify individuals without permission. Organizations should follow their own consent and safeguarding requirements.