Here are a few things to understand about the role of mentoring. Most of us have had a teacher 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.

All good mentors share some basic qualities:

RESPECT
Respect for others and young people.

LISTENING
Active listening skills

REAL DESIRE
A sincere desire to be involved with a
young person.

EMPATHY
Empathy for people and their
situations.

PROBLEM SOLVER
Ability to see solutions and
opportunities.

FLEXIBILITY
Need to be flexible.