Mar 06, 2025

Community Connections Mentoring Recognized in National Spotlight for Specialized Mentor Training

Posted Mar 06, 2025 5:07 PM
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Angela Hipp

Community Connections Mentoring

[North Platte, NE] – Community Connections Mentoring is proud to continue its partnership with The Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at UMASS Boston to offer Mindful Mentoring, a specialized training program designed to equip mentors with the skills to better support youth mental health and emotional well-being. 

The spotlight, available on MentorPRO’s website, explores how Community Connections Mentoring provides its mentors with the tools and training necessary to better support local youth. By equipping mentors with strategies for relationship-building, communication, and youth development, the program fosters positive, life-changing experiences for young people. 

"Investing in mentor training is investing in the future of our youth," said Angela Hipp, Mentoring Coordinator for Community Connections. “We deeply value our mentors and want to provide them with the best tools to support the young people they work with. This training is an incredible opportunity to learn from leading experts in youth mentoring. We hope this inspires more individuals to get involved." 

Mentors Needed – Growing Waitlist of Youth Seeking Mentors 

The need for mentors has never been greater, and our waiting list of youth is rapidly growing, particularly among grade school-aged children. We are actively seeking caring, committed adults to step up and become mentors to help change the trajectory of a young person’s life. 

About Mindful Mentoring Training 

Led by Dr. Alexandra Werntz, Associate Director of The Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at UMASS Boston, Mindful Mentoring provides mentors with practical tools to help youth express emotions, manage challenges, and develop healthy coping skills.

The course covers essential topics such as: 

✔ Understanding youth mental health 

✔ Effective mentoring strategies

 ✔ Helping mentees navigate anxiety and challenges 

✔ Building motivation and resilience 

The program has had a proven impact, with past participants reporting: 

📌 Increased confidence in supporting their mentee’s mental health 

📌 Better ability to help mentees navigate emotions and challenges 

📌 Greater enjoyment and fulfillment in their mentoring relationships 

Upon completion, mentors receive a certificate from The Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at UMASS Boston and access to exclusive mentoring resources. 

Community-Based Mentoring Offers Flexibility & Support 

Community Connections offers community-based mentoring, which provides flexibility in how mentors meet with their mentees—whether in person, at community locations, or engaging in shared interests. Mentors also receive ongoing support through monthly activities that they can pick and choose from, ensuring a meaningful experience that fits their schedule while staying connected with the mentoring community. 

The national spotlight also highlights broader efforts within the mentoring field to ensure mentors are well-prepared and supported, ultimately strengthening the impact of mentoring programs nationwide. 

To read the full spotlight, visit MentorPRO’s Community Partnership Spotlight

About Community Connections Mentoring 

For over 25 years, Community Connections Mentoring has helped youth in Lincoln County and beyond reach their potential through meaningful, one-on-one mentoring relationships. 

Our flexible, community-based program allows mentors and mentees to meet at public locations around town or during school lunch, spending 4 to 8 hours a month together. Mentors also have access to monthly group activities for additional support and shared experiences. 

For more information about Mindful Mentoring or how to become a mentor, please contact Angela Hipp at 308.696.0975. 

About The Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at UMASS Boston 

The Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring at UMASS Boston conducts research and develops training programs to enhance mentoring practices, ensuring that mentors are equipped with the best tools to support youth effectively. 

About MentorPRO 

MentorPRO is a platform dedicated to supporting mentoring organizations by providing technology, training, and resources to enhance mentoring programs.