STATEMENT ON COVID-19:

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The Mentors for Youth staff and board of directors have been keeping a close eye on the updates and conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic.

 

The CDC continues to recommend social distancing until at least April 30th, 2020. To protect the health and safety of our mentees, mentors, and their families, we must recommend that matches do not meet in person until social distancing recommendations have been amended.

 

Below you will find a mentoring guide to help you continue your relationship with your mentee. Mentors for Youth staff will continue to be here for you if you have any questions, or if you need advice on how to talk to your youth during this time.

 

 

CONNECTION IN A TIME OF SOCIAL DISTANCING

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Be mindful. As the COVID-19 pandemic spreads, it may trigger trauma for young
people impacted by the virus or by the news surrounding the pandemic. Let your mentee know that you see them and are there for them.

Be intentional about preserving continuity in the relationship.
          • Acknowledge what is going on and engage in a dialogue about the 

              pandemic.
          • Understand and honor your emotions and the emotions of your mentee,
             including the range of reactions that may be expressed.
          • Commit to self-care. Know that it is okay to take a break from the news

              and discussions about the virus as needed to manage anxiety or other

              responses to the situation.
         
Be in it together. Let your mentee know that you are in this together and are here  to help
          • Follow the latest on COVID-19 on the CDC’s website.
          • Follow the guidelines of our mentoring program or the

             guardians of your mentee around how to connect and communicate

             virtually with your mentee as in-person connections are now suspended. 

             Decide on clear boundaries and agreements about how you will connect

             with your mentee.

Be communicative. Healthy and supportive relationships are crucial during this
          time.
          • Remember young people need our support now more than ever!
          • Now that in-meetings must pause, follow the appropriate path:
          • If you are permitted/able to communicate virtually with your mentee:
                    Let your mentee know you need to temporarily pause seeing them in
                    person but are still there for them virtually. Create a plan with your

                     mentee about how you will stay in touch while continuing to follow

                     the appropriate guidelines.
          • If you are not permitted/able to communicate virtually:
                    Please contact us so we can help you figure out a way to pass along
                    information to let your mentee know that you care, value the

                     relationship, and will need to temporarily pause in-person meetings.

                     Health and safety are the primary focuses at this time.