"Working with (my Mentor) has been invaluable and incredibly constructive. We have had three great sessions that have already directly benefited our programs and organization. Thank you so much for this mentorship program, it's just the best!" — ANCA Mentee
The ANCA Mentor Program fosters partnerships and collaboration by connecting those members who are facing challenges with an administrator experienced in that particular issue. This is a unique service to the nature and environmental learning center profession and is a benefit of ANCA membership.
As a mentee, you will be paired with a mentor whose skills match your needs. As a mentor, you will get a chance to share how you navigated a certain challenge. This is a chance for both mentor and mentee to grow a unique relationship while strengthening the field.
How to Join the Program
First, complete the Mentor Program Form. An ANCA staff member will then contact you (this may take 1-2 weeks). Once we have paired you with an appropriate Mentor or Mentee, use the recommended schedule below to develop your Mentor Plan.
Mentor Program Form
More information can be found in the handbooks we have developed for Mentors and Mentees, as well as the ANCA Mentor Program Handbook.
Recommended Schedule
First Three Months:
- Mentors ask these questions: page 7 of the ANCA Mentor Program Handbook
- Mentees ask these questions: page 5-6 of the ANCA Mentor Program Handbook
3-6 Months:
- Mentees — How to effectively communicate: page 8-10 of the ANCA Mentee Handbook
- Expectations for Mentees: pages 3-4 of the ANCA Mentee Handbook
- Expectations for Mentors: page 3 of the ANCA Mentor Handbook
6+ Months:
- How to know when it's time to end a mentorship: pages 11-12 of the ANCA Mentee Handbook
Frequently Asked Questions
1. If I have questions or concerns about my Mentor/Mentee pairing, who should I contact?
If you have any concerns or questions about your Mentor/Mentee pairing, contact us.
2. When will I be notified of my Mentor/Mentee pairing?
After you complete the Mentor Program Form, and have been contacted by an ANCA staff member, we will get to work finding you a Mentor/Mentee match. Depending on the time of year and your challenges or skills it could take up to a month before we are able to find the best pairing for you.
3. How long does the mentorship last?
This will depend on the Mentor/Mentee pairing. Some pairings will last through a career, while other pairings only work for one issue or challenge during a career. If there is any question about whether or not it is time to end a mentorship, we recommend you read pages 11-12 of the ANCA Mentee Handbook linked to above.
4. Are my expectations of my Mentor realistic?
Expect your Mentor to listen and give you honest feedback, but do not expect them to have answers to every question. You will work with your Mentor to prioritize and focus on what is most important and realistic for both of you to accomplish in the next 6 months. It will be important to stay focused on these priorities and not burn yourself, or your Mentor, out.
5. Why should I become a Mentor?
You should become a mentor because you have experiences that may be directly applicable and beneficial to another administrator giving you a unique opportunity to strengthen the field. Even if you are a new director, chances are you already have these applicable experiences. We need you to apply to be a mentor!
"It is mind boggling for me to admit that since 1996 I’ve been a mentor. Why me? Because I love what I do and feel we can all make a difference in our community. Am I intimidated? No, I have strengths and areas that are still being developed just like the rest of you. What do I gain? Knowledge about a different organization and their successes and challenges. The hopes and dreams of someone who wants to be their best self and grow. A pulse on what’s going on out there. Finally and maybe most importantly a new friend. Think about what you do every day. For me the relationships that I have contribute to the person I am. Have no fear. Reach out and make a friend. Help someone grown breath, find success" — Helen Fischel, ANCA Emeritus Member
