COMING SOON: TRANS MENTOR PROJECT

Sam & Devorah Trans Mentor Project with the logo

Sam & Devorah Foundation’s Trans Mentor Project is our first-of-its-kind national e-mentoring program. Its mission is to provide trans and non-binary teens with supportive, identity-affirming mentors who will empower them to meet their personal goals and thrive. The program pairs transgender and non-binary (TGNB) youth, ages 13-17, with TGNB mentors for one to one video meetups that take place on a secure, monitored online platform.

Because there are limited resources available to trans and non-binary teens, Trans Mentor Project offers the unique ability for teens across the country to connect with adults with whom they can identify without the limitations of geographic proximity. The virtual aspect also offers the ability to maintain social connections during the present time of physical distancing. Our goal is to connect as many trans teens with mentors as possible throughout the country. We are committed to serving a diverse group of mentees and mentors. Black people, Indigenous people, people of color, people with disabilities, low-income people, and people living in rural areas or areas without support services are especially encouraged to apply.

Trans Mentor Project Benefits

Mentors: 

  • Have a positive impact on the life of a TGNB teen

  • Connect with an online community of other mentors

  • Form discussion groups with other mentors based on shared interests 

  • Develop leadership and communication skills

  • Participate in peer supervision related to mentoring experiences

Mentees:

  • Build a relationship with a TGNB mentor with whom you will feel respected and affirmed 

  • Discuss issues of importance to you

  • Achieve personal goals with the support of your mentor

  • Learn new ways of thinking

  • Benefit from opportunities to interact with other TGNB mentees

General Eligibility Requirements

  • Identify as transgender, non-binary, gender-expansive or non-conforming, genderqueer and/or gender questioning

  • Have access to a device that can video/audio call, i.e. a computer, smartphone, etc., and a space to have a private conversation

  • Participate in an introductory orientation and training sessions

  • Agree to a continuous one-year minimum commitment to the program (must be available for video meetups during the summer)

  • Agree to meet with mentor/mentee weekly

  • Agree to complete a pre, mid, and post program survey and/or evaluation

Applications for anyone interested in becoming a mentee or a mentor will be available in the coming weeks. Please check back, or email us with your interest at tmp@samdevorah.org.

News, Opportunity, Trans Mentor ProjectLibby Clarke