What is PRISM Mentoring?
PRISM (Pride, Respect, Identity, Safety, and Mentoring) is a mentoring program for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. As part of PRISM, young people who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ and would like a mentor who is also 2SLGBTQIA+ are connected with an adult mentor who also identifies as 2SLGBTQIA+ for a one-on-one mentoring relationship. BBBS Mentoring is based on the Developmental Relationships Framework conceptualized by the Search Institute, a leader in positive youth development, and focuses on ensuring that all young people who participate in BBBS programs have developmental relationships. Developmental Relationships are close connections that foster young peoples’ ability to discover who they are, cultivate their abilities, shape their own lives and learn how to engage with and contribute to the world around them.
PRISM Mentoring:
- Provides 1:1 developmental relationships for 2SLGBTQIA+ children & youth;
- Creates inter-generational connections within the queer community;
- Fosters pride and self-confidence;
- Provides referrals and support to families if/when needed;
- Offer 2SLGBTQIA+ young people a safe adult mentor to discuss identity with and above all, have fun!
Young people interested in being matched with a PRISM mentor must:
- Self-identify as 2SLGBTQIA+;
- Be between 6 and 16 years old;
- Want a mentor who identifies as 2SLGBTQIA+
*click here to enroll a young person*
Adults who are interested in being matched with a PRISM mentee must:
- Self-identify as 2SLGBTQIA+;
- Be over 18-years-old;
- Want to be a mentor to a 2SLGBTQIA+ young person
*click here to get started*
Through shared experiences, this program supports young adults with their development and transition into adulthood. To feel supported and listened to at a time of self-discovery is important for everyone. Mentors and mentees can learn how to utilize each other’s strengths, discover new interests and skills, explore ways to overcome obstacles and celebrate successes.
The 2SLGBTQIA+ community has a rich legacy of forging informal mentoring networks as a mode of survival. Today, the community has made great strides, yet 2SLGBTQIA+ youth continue to face barriers. Research shows that formal mentoring programs are a powerful, protective factor for this demographic as they develop their own unique sense of self.
We’re proud that our PRISM program is managed by staff identifying as 2SLGBTQIA+, mobilizing 2SLGBTQIA+ volunteers, all to mentor 2SLGBTQIA+ youth right here in our city! We truly are bigger together!