Building resilience through meaningful relationships

Connect & Thrive is a community mentoring initiative that pairs youth and young adults with caring mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement during life's challenging transitions. Grounded in trauma-informed practices and nervous system education, this program creates safe relationships where both mentors and mentees can grow.

 

The Power of Connection

Research shows that one caring adult relationship can be the difference between resilience and struggle for a young person facing adversity. Connect & Thrive creates those relationships intentionally, matching mentees with mentors who understand their unique challenges and can walk alongside them with wisdom, patience, and genuine care.

 

Who This Program Serves

• Youth & Young Adults facing challenging life transitions including family changes, mental health struggles, educational challenges, social isolation, or simply needing support and encouragement from someone who believes in them.

• Mentors who want to make a meaningful difference in a young person's life, share their wisdom and experience, and grow through the mentoring relationship.

 

What Makes Connect & Thrive Different

• Trauma-Informed Foundation - All mentors receive training in nervous system regulation, trauma awareness, and creating emotionally safe relationships. We understand that challenging behaviors often signal nervous system dysregulation, not defiance.

• Intentional Matching - We take time to understand each mentee's needs, interests, and personality, then carefully match them with mentors who can provide the specific support they need.

• Structured Support - This isn't a "figure it out yourself" program. Mentors receive ongoing training, check-in support, and access to resources throughout their mentoring relationship.

• Holistic Approach - Using the 8 Pillars of Wellness framework, mentor pairs explore multiple dimensions of wellbeing together, from emotional regulation to social connection to discovering purpose.

• Community Integration - Mentors and mentees are invited to participate in Positively Linked events, creating broader community connections beyond the one-on-one relationship.

• Family Involvement - We recognize that supporting a young person means supporting their whole family system. Parents and caregivers are partners in the mentoring process.

 

For Mentees: What to Expect

When you join Connect & Thrive, you'll be matched with a mentor who:

• Shows up consistently and keeps their commitments

• Listens without judgment and believes in your potential

• Helps you navigate challenges and celebrate successes

• Introduces you to new experiences and perspectives

• Supports your goals and dreams

• Teaches practical life skills and coping strategies

• Provides a safe space to process emotions and experiences

 

Time Commitment: Mentors and mentees meet 2 times per month for at least one year, with the option to continue the relationship beyond the initial commitment. As well as once-monthly community partner group sessions with both mentor and mentees. 

 

Activities: Mentor pairs design their time together based on shared interests and mentee goals. Activities might include: community service projects, outdoor adventures, creative activities, educational support, career exploration, skill-building workshops, social events, or simply spending time talking and building trust.

 

For Mentors: Making a Difference

Becoming a Connect & Thrive mentor means committing to show up consistently for a young person who needs your support, wisdom, and encouragement. It's one of the most meaningful investments you can make in your community.

 

What We Provide:

• Comprehensive training in trauma-informed mentoring

• Nervous system regulation education

• Background checks and screening process

• Thoughtful matching based on compatibility

• Ongoing support and check-ins

• Activity ideas and resources

• Community of fellow mentors

• Professional development opportunities

What We Ask of You:

• Minimum one-year commitment

• Consistent meeting schedule (2-4 times monthly)

• Attendance at monthly mentor gatherings

• Open communication with program coordinators

• Willingness to learn and grow

• Genuine care for your mentee's wellbeing

• Adherence to program guidelines and boundaries

Who Should Apply: We welcome mentors from all backgrounds who are at least 21 years old, have stable housing and employment, pass background checks, and genuinely want to support a young person's growth and healing.

 

Program Structure

• Initial Training - All mentors complete 6 weeks of training covering trauma-informed care, nervous system basics, mentoring best practices, boundaries, and program expectations.

• Matching Process - We take 4-6 weeks to carefully match mentors and mentees based on interests, availability, personality, and specific needs.

• First Meeting - The initial meeting happens in a structured setting with program staff present to establish expectations and begin building the relationship.

• Ongoing Mentoring - Pairs meet regularly for activities, conversations, and relationship-building over at least 12 months.

• Monthly Check-Ins - Mentors attend monthly gatherings for continued learning, support, and connection with other mentors.

• Program Support - Coordinators are available for questions, challenges, or celebration throughout the mentoring journey.

 

How to Get Started

• For Youth/Families: If you know a young person who would benefit from a caring mentor, contact us to discuss whether Connect & Thrive is the right fit. We'll schedule an intake meeting to learn about strengths, interests, and support needs.

• For Potential Mentors: Ready to make a lasting impact? Complete our mentor interest form and we'll contact you about the next training cohort.

 

Application & Information

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Training cohorts begin twice annually, in winter and summer 

Questions? Contact our Mentoring Coordinator at info@positivelylinked.org or call 360-929-2483.