1. Program Overview

Mentoring Program Overview

This page provides an overview of the Stitch Pioneer Mentoring Program. Most of the material on this page is contained in the Pioneer Program introduction video. If you’ve made it to this page, you have probably watched the introduction already, but we’re including the important points on this page for reference. 

Goals of the Program

The key to creating a successful local community is providing community pioneers the support, encouragement, and guidance they need.

Most importantly, they need to know they are not alone, but part of a community just like them who want to make a positive impact by enriching the lives of their fellow members.

With this in mind, there are ultimately three key goals of the program:

  • To Support Community Pioneers
  • To Develop Community Champions
  • To Nurture new Stitch Communities 

The Program will support Pioneers and help them along the community-building journey:

Graphic illustrating the journey of Stitch pioneer to community champion for connecting seniors

Who can be a Pioneer

Any Stitch member can apply to be a Pioneer. The only criterion required is enthusiasm to grow community activity in their local area, coupled with a commitment to stay engaged through at least the initial 4 months of the program (but hopefully they’ll find it so enjoyable they will participate far beyond that point!).

Approved Pioneers will be granted a complimentary upgrade to the next-highest level of Stitch membership plan. (Pioneers on a Limited membership, for example, will be upgraded to a Basic membership; Pioneers on the Basic plan will be upgraded to Standard, and so on).

Who can be a Pioneer Mentor

To apply to be a Pioneer Mentor, you need:

  • To be a Stitch Community Champion
  • To have been a member for at least 6 months
  • To have a high member rating, showing your behavior is consistently aligned with Stitch community values
  • To be able to host virtual activities (which you will learn as part of the training program)
  • To commit to running at least one Pioneer Group

Requirements for Mentors

Mentors will be expected to:

  • Complete the Mentor Training Program
  • Pass the Mentor Quiz
  • Run a successful trial virtual event with the Stitch team
  • Conduct 4 meetings for your Pioneer Group over a 4 month period
If you’d like to continue after that point, fantastic, but there is absolutely no commitment to do so — the choice is completely up to you!

The process for Mentors is illustrated in the diagram below:
Illustration showing the process for Stitch mentors to build community networks of support for senior friendships