Do's and Don'ts for Mentees
Reprinted with permission from Preparing for Success on the Outside by John Leonardson (MentorCare Ministries), p.14. http://prisonministry.net/MentorCare
1. DO understand it's a mutual relationship.
Both of you learn and grow. It's not someone just telling you what to do. The mentor may not have all the answers but is willing to find out.
2. DO realize this mentoring relationship is a Christian endeavor.
Everything must come under the authority of Jesus Christ and the Word of God. Although we deal with practical issues, your mentor does not represent a social agency. We believe that a life based on a relationship with Jesus will bear fruit in all areas.
3. DO base your life around your parole/probation conditions.
We desire that you remain out of prison and become successful as a Christian, income provider and stable influence in your community. The first big step is to fulfill the terms of your parole. Yes, the terms may be harsh, but nevertheless you must plan your time and resources to complete your conditions – all of them! Over time, as you earn the respect and trust of your P.O., your conditions will change and improve. We feel the P.O. is God's agent working in your life. Even if you aren't officially on parole, you are in essence in a probationary period of time where you must rebuild trust with your church and community.
4. DO check with your mentor before making major decisions.
Many negative situations can be avoided if you'll get some advice and feedback instead of quick action. Not everything you think is a crisis requires immediate action – take some time to think things through.
5. DO pray with and for your mentor.
Regular prayer will be one of the main keys to bring you lasting freedom in all areas of your life. Remember to be thankful to the Lord and give Him praise. This will defeat your enemies!
6. DO learn to share problems with your mentor.
Making a mistake is OK – hiding a problem leads to more grief. Learn to be honest and open, but exercise caution – not all mentors can handle all your problems at once. But if there is a major problem going on, open it up and seek help. God designed us to need other people.
7. DO remember you have been hurt by your prison experience.
You may find yourself angry, fearful and disappointed. That's OK and normal. You may have trouble making good decisions at first because prison takes decisions away from you. Seek the Lord for your pain, but also learn to lean on others. This goes against the prison code of doing your own time.
8. DON'T play games with your mentor.
Forget the con games, emotional trickery and manipulation. Don’t see how much you can get from your mentor, but desire to learn and grow. And be thankful – don't expect things to be given to you.
9. DON'T try to get the mentor to run your business or handle your money.
Seeking advice is OK, but don't try to partner with your mentor – it destroys the relationship.
10. DON'T expect all your problems to be solved quickly.
You've spent your life getting into your fix, so allow some time to work things out. Never give up – tomorrow is another day with new positive possibilities.
11. DON'T forget that Jesus really loves you and has good plans for you.
You will be tested, you will make mistakes, you will sin and you will do stupid things. So what? So does everybody else. Jesus is solid and will never let you down. Keep your relationship with Jesus fresh and repent often. 
