Consistent family engagement is a vital thread in the fabric of strong mentoring relationships. For our network, building sustainable relationships between a youth and mentor is about going through and developing real levels of trust, showing up again and again, and inviting families to be fully part of the journey. Parents, caregivers, mentors, young people, and community members each bring something valuable to the table. When each voice is heard and respected, mentoring becomes more than a program, it becomes a shared experience built on compassion, commitment and community.
Value Voices.
Family engagement consists of the ongoing partnership between mentors, parents/caregivers and other trusted adults in a young person’s life, grounded in the belief that,
“What happens at home really matters.”
Emily Hardin, MYL Leadership Program Coordinator
This collaboration can take many forms in a young person’s life, such as parents attending skill-based workshops, caregivers sharing character insights or extended family/community members offering support at fun events.
Since mentors only see mentees for a portion of time, family engagement ensures that youth are surrounded by consistent care and guidance through and beyond mentoring endeavors. By valuing the unique voices and contributions of each family, we create a network of support that reflects the diverse ways families show up and thrive together.
CASE STUDY: Jackson Leadership Foundation
The staff and volunteers at Red Door Jackson—the mentoring program of the Jackson Leadership Foundation—believe that valuing every voice, especially those of parents, caregivers, and extended family, is essential for building strong, lasting mentoring relationships and family bonds.
When the pandemic disrupted programming, it revealed gaps in caregiver communication and engagement needing attention and unique responses. Leaders and mentors leaned into caregiver feedback, making it the cornerstone of how their mentoring approaches are adapted and strengthened.
By actively listening to the valued voices of the village that surrounds the youth, our leaders, mentors and programs are better equipped to develop tools and processes that foster connection, character and confidence. A few examples include:
- MATCH CLOSURE POLICY: Include caregiver experience and opinions of their child(ren) in the match-up process out of respect for the caregiver’s perspective and to be sensitive of each individual mentees’ needs.
- MENTOR PROFILE SHEETS: These documents provide caregivers with detailed insights into mentors” backgrounds, facilitating easier introductions and building a level of trust or familiarity.
- PARENT TRAINING AT MATCH INITIATION: Training sessions for parents at the start of each mentoring match meant to equip parents with the tools to actively support the mentoring process and set the stage for productive relationships.
- PARENT HANDBOOK: A comprehensive handbook for parents and caregivers to guide them through the program’s structure and expectations, ensuring the remain informed and engaged.
Make Informed Decisions.
CASE STUDY: Jackson Leadership Foundation
Jackson Leadership Foundations provides wraparound services that meet the range of a young person’s needs at the middle. By connecting families to essential resources and life-building workshops (Hope Exchange) on finance, career skills, and faith while their children are being mentored just across the church parking lot.
This approach also deepens connections with families and communities. By prioritizing collaboration and honoring one another’s experiences and perspectives, the trust and partnerships built make the mentoring process stronger and more effective.
When a youth’s family is engaged, it is possible to shift the narrative for them and their youth. Challenges and even traumatic experiences can become milestones of growth, as consistent support from mentors, caregivers, and community partners creates opportunities for healing and transformation. This shared investment empowers youth to see progress, fosters resilience, and demonstrates the power of a network that listens, responds, and walks alongside them every step of the way.
Engage in Community.
Consistent family engagement creates a ripple effect that fosters genuine community and belonging. When families regularly connect with mentors, staff, and one another, they build relationships grounded in trust and shared purpose. These connections help break down isolation, creating spaces where families feel supported, heard, and understood. Over time, this engagement nurtures a culture of care—where parents, caregivers, mentors, and youth rally around one another, celebrate progress together, and offer help in times of need. This sense of belonging strengthens not only individual mentoring relationships but also the broader community, showing families that they are part of something bigger than themselves: a network committed to walking together for the good of every child.
