We believe the effectiveness of mentoring depends on the quality of the mentoring relationship. Research suggests a strong connection between the benefits that youth experience from mentoring and the closeness of the mentor/mentee relationship. Trust, empathy, authenticity, and common interests are important components of close relationships (Borden). As we grow as an organization our goal is to maintain a ratio of one college student to every four eighth graders to carry out a successful team mentoring structure. In order to ensure that constructive and healthy relationships are being formed between the mentors and men-tees, a monthly training for mentors is also mandatory with program staff.
