This paper explores the importance of planned and facilitated closure of the mentoring partnerships in programs serving children, youth and young adults. Addressed are the types of terminations that occur in mentoring relationships and the need for program policies and procedures for each type of closure. Concern regarding abrupt endings that can be detrimental to participants especially children and youth who are developing their sense of trust and self-esteem is also discussed. A listing of key areas related to closure of the mentoring match to be covered in mentoring program procedures is provided within the paper.

This paper describes the design of a mentoring program sponsored by a Women’s Resource Center at one West Coast community college. It also examines the challenges of implementing and sustaining the program. During year one of the mentoring program six of the nine mentors and the program coordinator participated in a research study regarding the program and their experience serving as a mentor. Six themes emerged from the interviews with the participants and subsequent analysis of the data: reflecting on past experience; wanting to help; setting and maintaining boundaries; experiencing strong emotions; relational support from other women; and mentoring as a reciprocal relationship