Multicultural Affairs for Students

Two African American men sitting at a table, looking down. There are two other African American men in the background, out of focus.

Community Mentoring Program

The Community Mentoring Program is a mentorship-based initiative at Â鶹´«Ã½ that strives to help African American male Â鶹´«Ã½s make a successful transition between college and their professional careers. This program aims to provide Â鶹´«Ã½s who are juniors and seniors at WMU with Â鶹´«Ã½ to connect with career professionals from the Kalamazoo community in a safe, welcoming and supportive mentorship program. The program also strives to help African American male Â鶹´«Ã½s make a successful transition between college and their professional careers.

Mentor-Mentee Testimonials

Mentee Orlando
“This program is something I strongly believe everyone can benefit from. You will be connected with someone in the community that has already made their way and that can help you figure out ways to get to where you want to be.â€
- Orlando, mentee
Mentor James
“I enjoy sharing my experiences and lessons learned to current college Â鶹´«Ã½s. I was a first-generation college Â鶹´«Ã½, so I didn’t have folks in my circle that I could go to for advice when I ran into challenging or unfamiliar situations. So, it means a lot to me to be a resource so that others don’t feel like they must figure it out alone.â€
- James, mentor

Multicultural Affairs for Students
Â鶹´«Ã½
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5233 USA
(269) 387-4420

Goals of the Program

  • To offer a safe, affirming, welcoming and supportive environment for Â鶹´«Ã½s.
  • To connect Â鶹´«Ã½s to working professionals in the community.
  • To support Â鶹´«Ã½s’ career exploration.
  • To expand Â鶹´«Ã½s’ career and community networks.
  • To prepare Â鶹´«Ã½s for successful transition into their field of interest by increasing their skills and knowledge.
  • To help Â鶹´«Ã½s better prepare for life after graduation from Â鶹´«Ã½.

What is Mentoring?

Mentor, mentee, and staff in the Community Mentoring Program standing inside a tented structure.

  • A process of sharing information between two people.
  • A proactive support system.
  • A unique and personal ongoing relationship between individuals.
  • Helping others find their own path.
  • A joint venture with shared responsibility for the learning process.
  • Shared events, experiences, observations, studies and thoughtful analysis.
  • A reciprocal relationship.

Mentor-Mentee Requirements

Mentor

  • Complete a 90-minute in-person or virtual training.
  • Have experience in career field and contribute actively to the Kalamazoo community. 
  • Willingness to share expert knowledge and experience to facilitate the growth of young African American WMU male Â鶹´«Ã½s.
  • Openness to participate in planned and organized Community Mentoring events being facilitated by WMU Multicultural Affairs for Students.
  • Have an ability to actively listen and work with Â鶹´«Ã½s to provide them guidance to meet their professional and personal goals.

Mentee

  • Junior or senior at WMU.
  • African American male.
  • Have an ability to uphold commitments with mentor and to develop a professional relationship, including asking questions, accepting feedback and attending networking Â鶹´«Ã½ with your mentor when possible.
  • Openness to participate in planned and organized Community Mentoring events being facilitated by WMU Multicultural Affairs for Students.

Benefits to Mentees

Services Received

  • Networking
  • Informational and mock interviews
  • Social events
  • Motivational presentations and speakers
  • Job shadowing

Motivational Presentations and Social Events

  • Sporting events
  • Teambuilding events with other mentors and mentees
  • Black Male Summit

Benefits to Mentors

Mentor, mentee, and staff in the Community Mentoring Program at a basketball game.

  • Make a difference in a Â鶹´«Ã½â€™s life.
  • Opportunity to give back and help others.
  • Connect with prospective talent.
  • Expand an understanding of workplace challenges and Â鶹´«Ã½.
  • Guide Â鶹´«Ã½s as they explore their career goals and aspirations.
  • Develop leadership skills.
  • Support the Kalamazoo and Â鶹´«Ã½ communities.
  • Enhance or increase your professional network.
  • Build confidence in a young, growing professional.

Contact Information

For more information, contact:

Alexander Long, Graduate Assistant
alexander.c.long@wmich.edu