This Volunteers’ Week, we are sharing stories of the two-way street of mentoring. Des, who has been a mentor for over a year, shares how stepping outside his comfort zone led to a year of growth and connection.
The First Steps
“I decided to become a mentor after chatting with Liz, Partnerships Manager in Surrey, at one of the Gatwick Diamond Business meetings. What we discussed really resonated with me, and I found myself wanting to get involved in something new where I could genuinely help others by drawing on my own life experiences.
After a thorough vetting process, I was matched with a young person in less than two weeks – that was a year ago now, and I honestly haven’t looked back. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first. I’m a father of three boys and had been matched with a girl, which felt outside my comfort zone. But thanks to the careful matching and preparation, we had plenty to talk about from the very beginning.
A Personal Journey
As the weeks went on, we both relaxed, trust grew, and conversation began to flow naturally.
The whole experience has been incredibly enlightening. Sharing her experiences and opening up in return has helped me grow as a person – unbottling emotions I didn’t even realise I was carrying and seeing life from a different perspective. Mentoring hasn’t just helped her; it’s helped me too.
MCR Pathways have been there every step of the way with training and ongoing support, and I’ve been lucky to have fantastic backing from the school and their MCR co-ordinator. They’ve made me feel like part of the wider teaching family and truly recognise the difference a volunteer mentor can make.
The Power of Mentoring
I regularly encourage others to get involved because you really could be that one person a young person needs. Not a parent or an authority figure – just a friendly face for one hour a week. Someone who listens without judgement. Someone they can talk to, let off steam with, or even break down in front of. Someone who can say, “I’ve been there,” or simply, “It’s going to get better – and we’ll get through this together.”
If you’re thinking about mentoring, I’d wholeheartedly say: go for it. You may change a life – including your own.”
Become a Trusted Adult Volunteer Mentor like Des
There are many young people waiting for a Trusted Adult Volunteer Mentor to help them realise their potential. You don’t need special qualifications or experience, just the willingness to show up.
Find out more: https://mcrpathways.org/become-a-mentor/
This story has been anonymised to protect the privacy of those involved, and stock imagery has been used.