The Mentorship Blueprint

Mentors, Youth, and Sexual Health: Building Trust in the Conversation

Mark Garcia Season 2 Episode 6

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0:00 | 43:13

Talking about sexual health with a young person can feel daunting for many mentors. But sometimes, these conversations come up naturally—and other times, mentors recognize the need to bring them up for the sake of a youth’s safety and well-being.

In this episode of The Mentorship Blueprint, Mark is joined by mentors Brenda and Joe, who share how they’ve navigated these important discussions. For Brenda, sexual health came into the mentoring relationship through her mentee’s curiosity and openness. For Joe, it was the realities of his mentee’s environment and relationship that made him decide the conversation couldn’t wait.

Together, they talk about how to create safe and judgment-free spaces, respect the role of parents and caregivers, and provide accurate resources when youth have questions. They also share practical advice for mentors who feel nervous about addressing sexual health, reminding us that showing up with openness and care can make all the difference.

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The Mentorship Blueprint by New Pathways for Youth, a nonprofit organization based in Phoenix, Arizona, shares real stories, insights, and strategies that highlight the power of mentorship in transforming young lives. Through each episode, we explore how meaningful relationships, guidance, and opportunity can create lasting impact.

Led by Mark Garcia, Director of Training and Curriculum at NPFY, The Mentorship Blueprint dives into the challenges and triumphs of one of the most effective interventions for young people: youth mentoring.

To learn more or get involved, visit npfy.org and join us in building pathways for youth to thrive.

Interested in becoming a volunteer mentor? Start here.