PROGRAMS
PROGRAMS
Linked LGBTQ+ Mentoring Program
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We are working on a plan for Linked Mentoring to start again this fall. Stay tuned for more information!
Few peer mentoring programs that focus specifically on LGBTQ+ youth currently exist, because of this, GSA Link is looking to help establish and develop these important peer-to-peer relationships. Growing up, LGBTQ+ youth are often exposed to violence, marginalization, alienation, and rejection from a potential variety of sources: family members, peers, teachers, strangers, and the media, based on their LGBTQ+ identities. Many LGBTQ+ youth are not in situations where they have access to LGBTQ+ folks older than them who are invested in their success, growth, and identity development.
Through a variety of meeting styles, both one-on-one and group-centered sessions, with a focus on a different topic or skill each week, we will assist in developing mutually enjoyable connections. This variety of meeting styles will help to not only grow the connection between the pairing, but encourage the youth to interact with others in their own age group to develop multiple networks of support. The community and relationships built together may ultimately help the youth to navigate challenges they face in identity exploration, coming out, breaking down internalized messages of hate, advocating for themselves, and identifying their passions.
By emphasizing the importance of coming together as a community to support LGBTQ+ youth, the Linked LGBTQ+ Mentoring program’s goal is to connect LGBTQ+ youth with an LGBTQ+ mentor, so that the two can develop a trusting, supportive, mutually positive connection. Research on outcomes for young people engaged in mentoring relationships overwhelmingly shows benefits for both parties, including increased self-esteem, higher academic performance, and healthier relationships.
Interested in being a mentor or mentee with our Linked mentoring program? We'd love to have you!
