The Basics
How it works
Menslink’s Mentoring Program pairs men who have survived their adolescence with young blokes aged 10-16 who are still on their way there.
Our volunteer mentors are regular guys. They’re not superheroes. They’re genuine people. From tradies, white-collar professionals, sports fans, and others, who prefer the theatre. 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).
Menslink mentors are not parent figures or counsellors. 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 young men how to live their lives.
Menslink mentors are unpaid volunteers; they do it because they want to. We check they’re the right fit (so do the cops), 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.
Mentoring involves 1-1 catch-ups between the young guy and mentor, as well as Menslink group events where we do fun stuff together like laser tag, ten-pin bowling, or even just watching a good movie.
Building connection, shoulder to shoulder
Side-By-Side Mentor Program
In our 25-year history of mentoring young men at Menslink, we consistently hear similar concerns from families, social workers and schools. Young men are struggling to thrive in their relationship with their male role model.
We want to support all young men, not just those who are without a male role model. We want to build a long-lasting community of men who are committed to building connections between themselves and other males.
At Menslink, we believe role models are the best chance at providing the young fella with consistent, quality and meaningful male connection.
What is the program?
The Side-By-Side program is a curated mix of education & experiential group sessions, community-based activities and dedicated quality time between the young fella and their role model. This helps to build empathy, trust, positive relationship skills/habits, all integrated into everyday life.
It’s no-cost, designed to develop strong and lasting male relationships in the Canberra community.
Please note that this program is currently in Pilot stage, and we will have limited spots available.
High-quality involvement of male role models (particularly fathers) during childhood promotes higher employment rates, healthier relationships, and other favourable life qualities for the child well into adulthood
Nettle, 2028
Mentor Program Activity
Menslink Wilderness Experience
One of the programs available to young men in the mentoring program is the Menslink Wilderness Experience – a 3-day, 2-night outdoor adventure.