ADRP 2021 Mentorship Program

Pair with a Mentor or Mentee for the ADRP 2021 Conference

Want to join the Mentorship Program?

Indicate your interest when registering for the ADRP 2021 International Conference and a member of the ADRP team will be in touch with you to confirm your registration once more details are available. 

Are you a donor relations/stewardship professional who has skills and knowledge to share? Are you new to the profession or someone who wants direction/encouragement to add something to your skill tool kit? This year, we are taking the traditional concept of Mentors and Mentees to new heights and hope that you will join us to explore the concept that we all have expertise to share – whether you are a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the field.

It’s really that simple – consider this example – You are a newcomer to the field of donor relations and bring with you a savvy social media skill set…You could serve as a Mentor….or….You are a seasoned professional, but would really like to brush up on your social media skills – You can participate as a Mentee – see the match?! Our overall goal is to help those interested in sharing your experiences and knowledge be matched with those individuals that are willing to learn new skills in this new twist to the options with this Program.

Please note: The Program also supports the traditional concept of connecting experienced donor relations professionals with newcomers to the field to provide encouragement in career development, share professional knowledge and build relationships among practitioners, in addition to new skill development.

Mentorship Program Expectations

The purpose of the ADRP International Conference Mentorship Program is to connect donor relations professionals with each other in our field to share professional knowledge and build relationships among practitioners. Additional benefits can include coaching on a new skill, encouragement in career development and so much more!

What is expected of me as a MENTEE?

  • Take the initiative - contact with your assigned mentor prior to the conference to introduce yourself and respond to all communications in a timely manner.
  • Establish clear goals for your mentoring relationship with the mentor.
  • Meet individually with your mentor at least one other time during the conference to facilitate further conversation in a 1-on-1 setting.
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with an open mind, professionalism, and respect.
  • Welcome the experience – be open and enthusiastic about pursuing the widest range of professional experiences and skills.
  • Be receptive to feedback and suggestions – remember, it’s important to recognize that everyone has something to teach you.

What is expected of me as a MENTOR?

  • Respond to all communications in a timely manner.
  • Listen – function as a sounding board for challenges and ideas.
  • Assist your mentee(s) in establishing clear goals for your mentoring relationship.
  • Meet individually with your mentee(s) at least one other time during the conference to facilitate further conversation in a 1-on-1 setting.
  • Encourage and motivate to help your mentee(s) to consistently move beyond their comfort zone.
  • Support and facilitate networking experience; share knowledge of the profession; offer assistance where needed.
  • Approach the mentoring relationship with an open mind, professionalism, and respect.

What is NOT expected of me as a MENTOR?

  • To initiate all contact with your mentee(s).
  • To have all the answers for your mentee(s).
  • To use undue influence – to use a sense of obligation to influence mentee(s) professional decisions.
  • To offer a job to your mentee(s).