Yes! Many mentors return to the Forum or continue serving in subsequent cohorts of the Art of Accompaniment Mentoring Program. There are also opportunities to support GIVEN alumnae in our network, serve as Action Plan Strategists for new participants, or offer skills-based assistance in other areas.
No. Because mentoring is primarily virtual, women from across the United States (and beyond) can serve as GIVEN Mentors. However, whenever possible, preference is given to pairing mentors and mentees from similar locations to allow for potential in-person connection.
The most important qualification for a GIVEN Mentor is a willingness to accompany and encourage young women in their unique call from God. Professional experience and vocational maturity matter, but the heart of mentoring is sharing your lived wisdom and faith.
After the Forum, mentees and mentors are prayerfully matched based on professional expertise, personal interests, and the skills most helpful for supporting the mentee in developing her Action Plan.
Mentors are not alone in their service. GIVEN staff provide ongoing support, resources, and check-ins to ensure that mentors are equipped and encouraged throughout the year.
An Action Plan is a project developed by each young woman participating in our program to put her gifts in service of the Church and the world. Mentors walk alongside mentees by offering encouragement, accountability, and practical advice as they bring their plans to life.
Yes! Mentors receive training to help them walk with their mentees throughout their journey, unpack the Forum themes, and support the development of their Action Plans. These trainings are held virtually in the months leading to the Forum.
Our Mentor training and participation in the Leadership Forum are essential in order to walk with our young women as a Mentor. There may be other select mentoring opportunities outside of our Year of Accompaniment program, once a relationship has been established with GIVEN staff.
Lay Mentors cover the cost of their travel to the Leadership Forum. GIVEN finds sponsors for invited consecrated women religious to help cover their travel expenses. In addition, GIVEN covers food and lodging for all Mentors.
Mentors are required to participate in virtual preparatory training sessions leading up to the Forum and commit to a one-year relationship with up to two mentees. Mentors meet with each mentee at least once a month for a minimum of 30 minutes. In addition, mentors complete monthly check-ins, participate in quarterly virtual gatherings, and submit both a mid-year and final [...]
