“Sharing experiences and expertise to help with personal and professional growth”

What is mentoring?
A very important part of the Work Readiness Skills Learning Program is Mentorships.

Project learners will be matched with a mentor in their chosen field of work as one way to develop their employability skills. Mentors are also known as Coaches, Role Models or Guides.

They support a job seeker in their search by linking them to contacts in their network, advise them on trends in their field, and provide feedback and encouragement to support success. This mentoring experience can expand the world of both “mentor” and “mentee” through helping people become more comfortable with differences.

Why is mentoring important?
More frequently people are creating inclusive and diverse working environments because they understand the benefits to their workforce. Despite change, many persons with disabilities have not had equal access to work experiences. Some persons acquire disabilities later in life and need to explore career changes. Persons with disabilities may have experienced hiring barriers based on fear and ignorance or just lack of awareness.
Having the support of experienced and positive roles models can be motivating for the job seeker.
Mentors can assist in many ways:

• Provide career exploration assistance
• Provide encouragement and support
• Provide social experiences that assist with skill development
• Role Modeling – demonstrating and explaining actions and values for the world of work
• Listening – encourage mentees to express their fears, dreams and concerns

How do mentors benefit?
The top 10 benefits to being a mentor with Work Readiness Skills Program:

• Gain personal and professional satisfaction
• Gain improved interpersonal and management skills
• Focuses the mentor outside of him/herself
• Builds employee and company morale developing a competent future workforce
• Expand your knowledge regarding disabilities issues
• Develops the same skills needed for successful and effective managers
• Enhances image of the company
• Prepares employees to take on greater responsibilities in the corporation
• Pass on success while expanding horizons
• Gain recognition from peers

How do Employers get involved?
Do you have a few extra hours a month?
Are you interested in an opportunity to support and make a positive impact on your own life as well as a dedicated job seeker?
Challenge your self and others through the uniquely valuable experience of mentoring.

To learn more, please contact Allison Jones.