The TOMNET (The Older Mens Network) and Flexi Mentoring Program has been running for a number of years at Flexi as a result of members of TOMNET volunteering their time to help with preparing lunch, gardening and learning activities.
This program provides leadership and support to youth through mentors being a source of information, listening, facilitating the learning process and helping young people to recognise their strengths. Mentors are both male and female and careful consideration by the Mentoring coordinator, Melinda Priddin, is given to the pairing of a young person with their mentor.
What is Mentoring?
'Mentoring' is defined as "a mutually beneficial relationship that involves a more experienced person helping a less experienced person to identify and achieve their goals".
Effective mentoring:
- Is a relationship that focuses on the needs of the mentee
- Fosters caring and supportive relationships
- Encourages all mentees to develop to their fullest potential
- Is a strategy to develop active community partnerships
While, in the main, mentoring occurs on a one-to-one basis, elements of mentoring may be present in group situations where, under certain circumstances, a one-to-one relationship emerges as an important vehicle for growth and development for mentees. The one-to-one relationship is the key to effectiveness in mentoring.
For more information on how to get involved visit the TOMNET webpage or phone 4638 9080.
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