Effective Branch-to-Branch Mentorship Program Guide

A Framework for Mentoring within and across the ACA Structure Kate Williams, ACA Branch Development Committee Member (ad hoc) Victoria Kress, ACA Branch Development Committee Chair

Under the responsibilities of the region leaders section of the ACA s 2015 Regional Operating Guide there is a statement that the past region chair will: Facilitate a branch-to-branch mentorship/support program/process.

Branch-to-Branch Mentorship Program Guide Mission and Objectives of the Program Roles and Responsibilities Procedural Considerations/Resources: timelines, matching criteria; applications to participate; mentoring agreement/contract; discussion questions ACA Resources

Branch-to-Branch Mentoring Program Program Mission: This guide is intended to serve as a resource that ACA region leaders can use in developing mentorship programs that support and empower branch leaders.

Branch-to-Branch Mentorship Program Provides branch leaders with an opportunity to receive support A vehicle for establishing branch-to-branch mentoring programs Can be used with branches that are struggling, are inactive, or even those who seek to gain expertise in an area in which another other branch or branch leader excels.

Provides Mentees with an opportunity to: Develop their leadership skills; Learn about successful initiatives and programs in other branches and understand how to implement these in their own branches; Become acquainted with resources and people who can support their branch s needs and help them reach their leadership goals and objectives.

Roles and Responsibilities of Mentor/ Mentee Establishing goals and monitoring progress made towards reaching these goals Active Communication and Participation Mentees provide an outcome summary and progress made towards reaching goals

Possible Selection and Reporting Timeline June 1st: Email is sent out to the incoming Branch and Region leaders via ACA Connect announcing the program information and that applications are available online. Region Past Chairs identify regions that are struggling or are seeking specific supports and encourage them to participate in the program. July 15th: Mentor and Mentee Applications Due to the Region Past Chairs (see Appendix A and B for examples of Mentor and Mentee Applications that can be used). July 16th: The Region Chair (and any other leaders who are participating in this process) begin review and consideration of matches. Review to be completed before the start of the ACA ILT. July 21st: Mentors and Mentees are identified and notified of acceptance and pairings and have an opportunity to meet at the ACA ILT. August 31st: Mentoring pair has identified mutual goals for the leadership year and established a mentoring plan which includes a schedule for meeting during the year and the way in which they will be communicating. Quarterly Report Deadlines

Examples of Discussion Questions to Mentor Why did you pursue leadership roles in counseling? What do you like best about being a counseling leader? What are the challenges you face as a leader in an organization? How do you motivate volunteers? Who or what are some of your most important resources that you use to guide you in your leadership roles? How do you think counselors can advocate for the counseling profession?

Examples of Discussion Questions to Mentee How can I support you in your leadership role? What previous leadership experience do you have? What did you like or dislike about it? How would you describe yourself as a leader (strengths and struggles)? What obstacles do you think you will continue to face in leadership roles?