Strategic Plan for a Program Similar to “Soul Buddies” (2025)

Program Overview:
“Soul Buddies” is a mentorship program focused on providing emotional and psychological support for young people. The program pairs older, more experienced mentors with younger individuals to foster growth, understanding, and emotional resilience. Through structured activities, conversations, and community-building events, the program aims to help participants develop better self-awareness, confidence, and life skills.



Mission Statement:
To create an emotionally supportive environment where youth and mentors build strong, lasting relationships, improve emotional intelligence, and cultivate a sense of belonging through shared experiences and activities.

Program Goals:

1. Mentorship: Develop one-on-one mentor-mentee relationships that are supportive, encouraging, and positive.
2. Emotional Growth: Foster emotional intelligence and resilience in participants through workshops and group activities.
3. Community Engagement: Build a community of like-minded individuals who support each other’s growth.
4. Life Skills Development: Provide participants with practical tools and strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving personal goals.
   
    

Target Audience:

• Mentors: Individuals aged 18-35 who have experience in leadership, counseling, or community work.
• Mentees: Youth aged 12-18 in need of emotional support, guidance, or mentorship.
  
   

Key Strategies:

1. Recruitment & Training:
   • Mentor training on communication, active listening, emotional intelligence, and confidentiality.
   • Recruitment of mentees through schools, youth organizations, and community centers.
2. Monthly Engagement:
   • Regular meet-ups (in-person or virtual) between mentors and mentees.
   • Group activities to build community and facilitate sharing.
3. Workshops & Skill Development:
   • Monthly workshops focused on personal development topics.
4. Community Events:
   • Regular social gatherings and events to foster bonding between mentors and mentees.
     
      

12-Month Calendar of Events for 2025:



January: Program Kick-Off & Orientation

• Week 1: Welcome event and introduction to program structure.
• Week 2: Ice-breaking activities and mentor-mentee pairings.
• Week 3: Goal-setting session for mentors and mentees.
• Week 4: Workshop on building effective communication skills.

February: Emotional Intelligence Focus

• Week 1: Mentors and mentees meet for emotional intelligence development.
• Week 2: Group workshop on understanding emotions and self-regulation.
• Week 3: Outdoor bonding activity (e.g., hiking or a nature walk).
• Week 4: Reflection session: How to handle difficult emotions.

March: Life Skills Development

• Week 1: Workshop on time management and organizational skills.
• Week 2: Mentor-mentee check-in session to review goals.
• Week 3: Guest speaker on career readiness or college prep.
• Week 4: Group project: Creating a vision board for future goals.

April: Community Engagement Month

• Week 1: Volunteer activity (e.g., community clean-up, charity event).
• Week 2: Group mentorship circle – sharing experiences and progress.
• Week 3: Skill-sharing workshop – mentors teach mentees a specific skill.
• Week 4: Fun social event (e.g., picnic, movie night).

May: Mental Health Awareness Month

• Week 1: Workshop on mental health awareness and destigmatization.
• Week 2: Stress management techniques session (guided meditation, yoga).
• Week 3: Mentor-mentee reflection on emotional well-being.
• Week 4: Mental health awareness community event (discussion panel, awareness walk).

June: Summer Social & Outdoor Adventure

• Week 1: Mentor-mentee day trip (e.g., camping, theme park).
• Week 2: Group storytelling and sharing of personal growth stories.
• Week 3: Workshop on building self-confidence and resilience.
• Week 4: Community event celebrating participants’ achievements.

July: Focus on Leadership Skills

• Week 1: Leadership development workshop for mentors and mentees.
• Week 2: Mentorship exchange activity – mentors and mentees switch roles.
• Week 3: Group activity on problem-solving and teamwork.
• Week 4: Leadership recognition ceremony and appreciation event.

August: Goal Review & Reflection

• Week 1: Individual check-ins between mentors and mentees to review progress.
• Week 2: Group reflection on successes and challenges faced.
• Week 3: Workshop on overcoming setbacks and staying motivated.
• Week 4: Outdoor activity to celebrate achievements (e.g., sports day, talent show).

September: Academic and Career Planning

• Week 1: Workshop on academic success and study strategies.
• Week 2: Mentors share personal career journeys and lessons learned.
• Week 3: Group discussion on future aspirations and goal-setting.
• Week 4: Career fair or college readiness session.

October: Creativity & Personal Expression

• Week 1: Workshop on creative writing or art therapy.
• Week 2: Group project: Collaborative artwork or short film.
• Week 3: Storytelling circle – sharing personal narratives.
• Week 4: Talent showcase where mentees and mentors share their creative works.

November: Gratitude and Giving Back

• Week 1: Gratitude workshop for emotional well-being.
• Week 2: Community service event (e.g., food drive, helping the elderly).
• Week 3: Group sharing on lessons learned and personal growth.
• Week 4: Thanksgiving-themed social event for reflection and appreciation.

December: Program Wrap-Up & Celebratory Event

• Week 1: Final check-in and reflection sessions between mentors and mentees.
• Week 2: Celebration event – award ceremony, recognition of achievements.
• Week 3: Community gathering for the end-of-year reflections.
• Week 4: Planning for the following year – gathering feedback for program improvement.
  
   

Evaluation & Monitoring:

• Monthly Surveys: To track progress, challenges, and satisfaction from both mentors and mentees.
• Quarterly Reviews: Feedback from mentors, mentees, and facilitators to adjust programming as needed.
• End of Year Assessment: A comprehensive evaluation of program success, individual growth, and areas for improvement.
  
   

Budget Considerations:

• Event supplies (workshop materials, activities, etc.)
• Venue rental (if applicable)
• Marketing & promotional costs
• Transportation for community events or outings
• Honorariums for guest speakers/workshop facilitators
• Recognition and appreciation awards