Planning and Implementing a Mentoring Program

FLiP Establishes Mentoring Program for Women in Transition

Springfield’s Female Leaders in Philanthropy has for several years helped women in transition. The Suit Yourself Boutique, by appointment, has provided each woman referred in by community agencies with several complete outfits of appropriate, gently used, work-ready clothing.

The membership decided to undertake a further mentoring program for these women to help assure their success. The nine members of the initial class of mentees have been referred by organizations such as area technical colleges, job placement services, area career centers, and the United Way.

The women represented age groups from 18 to over 57. Four had high school diplomas or GEDs, some had professional certifications such as LPN or paralegal, one was pursuing an MBA. Although they represented a wide variety of skill sets including waitress, clerical, office manager, hospital LPN, writing, restaurant manager, cook or cashier, auditor, and bookkeeper, only three were presently employed.

In hopes of jump-starting other Women’s Initiative Groups in setting up mentoring programs for women in transition in their own communities, Springfield FLiP shares its experience.