mentoring meets you
where you’re at …
Life as a young guy can be tough sometimes. Troubles at home, school’s rubbish, stuff costs more than you’ve got, the idea of taking drugs worries you, but not taking them worries you more because some of your mates are doing them and you want to fit in.
Welcome to the real world. This is where a Menslink mentor lives.
Our volunteer mentors are regular guys, just like you. They’re not superheroes. They’re genuine people. Some are tradies, some are professionals, some like sports, and others prefer the theatre. But what they all have in common is that they were once a young bloke in their teens. They’ve lived it … and survived (and maybe picked up a few tricks along the way).
They know that life isn’t always smooth sailing and that it can really help to have someone outside the family to talk to. And they want to be that person for you.
The Logistics
How it works
Think of a mentor like a supportive uncle or an older brother. They’re not a counsellor or replacement father, and they’re certainly not there to tell you how to live your life. Mentors are people who will stand up for you and stick with you, whether things are good or bad.
You get to choose your mentor. Menslink brings everyone (young blokes and mentors) together for a group session, with games and activities designed to break the ice. At the end, we will ask you, in private, who you would like to be your mentor.
After that, you’re in the driving seat and the relationship will only grow as fast or slow as you make it. You can meet with your mentor on your own, and/or at Menslink group events where we do fun stuff together like camping, rock climbing, laser tag, ten pin bowling or even just watching a good movies.
Menslink mentors are unpaid volunteers. They do it because they want to, not because they want a dollar for it. We check them out, and so do the cops (that’s how it works these days). And we spell out to them the commitment required to fulfil the role.
A Menslink mentoring relationship lasts for 2 years and during that time we get regular individual feedback from all involved: young bloke, mentor and parents.
A mentor is expected to be proactive, but not pushy or a figure of authority. Mentoring is a chance for a young bloke to see life from a different point of view. And it’s a chance for a mentor to learn from the young bloke too. In this sense, you are both making a meaningful contribution.
Menslink Wilderness experience
One of the programs available to young men in the mentoring program is the Menslink Wilderness Exeperience – a 3 day, 2 night outdoor adventure. Learn more here.
Hear from Des about the mentoring program
NEXT sTEPS
Interested in getting a mentor?
Simply fill out a help request form and we’ll get back to you within two business days.
Alternatively, call or email us for more info – and in case you were wondering, we’re a free service.