The mentoring program is a partnership between The Diabetes Prevention and Control Program (DPCP) and MODE. It is a formal process designed to link an experienced professional to a novice for the mutual benefit of advancing professional and personal development.  The program provides tools to assist the mentor and mentee with the process of developing a working relationship.

The formal program will help guide the participants to form a relationship that is a partnership, with a level learning field characterized as equal and helping, without elements of power or command. 

Who oversees the Program?
The Committee will oversee the program and process and will be available for assistance and support throughout the process.  A took kit with guidelines and resources is available to facilitate a successful relationship.

The Mentor/Mentee Relationship
The most important concept is that it is a partnership, de-emphasizing an authority role of the mentor, as might more likely occur in a workplace mentoring situation.  It ought not to necessarily be conducted as though it is a “teacher-learner” relationship. 

If the relationship is successful, both mentor and mentee will experience personal and professional growth and other specific outcomes such as Increased confidence in DSMT and program management ability, job satisfaction, growth in personal relationship skills, sense of fulfillment and a positive attitude about mentoring relationships.  Additionally, the outcome should enable mentees to eventually become mentors.