In three one-hour modules, Start and Build a Mentoring Program for Deaf Youth uses evidence-based research, real-world examples, and useful resources ready for immediate implementation.
- Module one explores the overall impact of mentoring and its contributions to the development of deaf youth. You’ll consider your own experiences with mentors, learn the types of mentoring, and understand how leveraging community resources can make a difference.
- Module two focuses on the challenges and barriers involved with creating and sustaining mentoring opportunities. That includes exploring strategies for funding and recruitment, communicating clear expectations, and training mentors to be paired with mentees.
- Module three examines effective mentoring practices and resources to sustain positive experiences, including integrating ethical principles and intentional yet flexible structures
Why Mentoring Matters!
Deaf youth often lack access to deaf role models, experience negative attitudes and low expectations, and frequently attend mainstream schools where most or all of their peers are hearing, making academic and social settings difficult. When deaf mentors describe what they have learned from their shared experience of navigating the world as a deaf person, it is particularly impactful.
Research shows deaf youth who participate in mentorship programs develop greater confidence, self-worth, and deaf identity, which can in turn build self-esteem. They also develop better social relationships, stronger independent living and coping skills, and more expressive language.
The benefits can even extend to families. After working with deaf mentors, parents and caregivers become more optimistic about their deaf children’s futures — boosting parental expectations that can positively affect future employment, pursuit of postsecondary education, and independent living.
Who It is Designed For!
Start and Build a Mentoring Program for Deaf Youth is free and open to all. It is a self-paced professional development online course designed for professionals, community members, transition counselors, interpreters, and anyone interested in learning about creating a mentoring program. With a passing score of 80% or above, participants receive a certificate of completion and can submit it for 0.3 RID CEUs or 3 CRCC clock hours.
