The origin of the word "Mentor" can be traced to Homer's The Odyssey. In his epic poem, Homer describes the character Mentor as a "wise and trusted friend." When Odysseus (or Ulysses) leaves Ithaca to fight the Trojan War, he asks his good friend Mentor to guard the household. Mentor, who is actually the goddess Athena in disguise, watches over the kingdom, and becomes guardian and teacher to Odysseus' son, Telemachus.
What Is Not a Mentor?
A mentor is not a hero. A mentor is not a social worker, a moneylender or a disciplinarian.
What Is a Mentor?
A mentor is a caring peer. A mentor is an advocate for the needs of a young person. A mentor is a listener and a guide.
Mentors
