Healthy Masculinity Group Based Mentoring

Our site-based Healthy Masculinity Group Mentorship program is a flexible, high-impact initiative designed to break cycles of violence, promote mental health equity, and create lasting change within communities by engaging masculine-identified youth and adults in safe, restorative spaces.

This evidence-informed program supports boys, men, and masculine-identified individuals through weekly restorative talking circles, offering opportunities for authentic connection, self-reflection, and personal growth. These simple yet transformative circles address mental health challenges, social-emotional development, and non violent conflict resolution, equipping participants with the tools they need to build resilience, leadership, and positive peer relationships.

Our group mentoring model is rooted in listening, encouragement, acceptance, and modeling (L.E.A.M.), where mentors lead by example and facilitate structured discussions that allow youth to explore their identity, navigate emotions, and build confidence in a supportive, nonjudgmental space. By establishing healthy behavioral norms and fostering trusted relationships, our program creates pathways for youth to heal, thrive, and redefine masculinity in ways that serve them and their communities.

Originally launched in schools, we have expanded our reach by partnering with community organizations to implement this program in diverse settings, ensuring that BIPOC and other underserved youth have access to meaningful mentorship.

Studies show that mentorship programs rooted in restorative practices and social-emotional learning lead to increased emotional intelligence, resilience, self-confidence, and positive social behaviors among participants. Our data indicates that boys and masculine-identified youth who engage in weekly talking circles experience improved emotional and physical well-being, stronger peer relationships, and a greater sense of belonging and self-awareness. By providing consistent, trusted mentorship, this program helps youth navigate challenges, break cycles of harm, and develop the skills needed to build healthier, violence-free futures.

For more information, send us an email mailto:www.information@btmtucson.com.

How It Works

Our Healthy Masculinity Group Mentorship Program is built around Restorative Talking Circles, providing a structured yet flexible space for youth to explore their identity, express themselves openly, and build essential life skills.

• Restorative Talking Circles: Weekly one-hour sessions where youth engage in guided discussions, fostering self-awareness, communication skills, conflict resolution, and mutual understanding. These circles challenge stereotypes, promote healthy relationships, and create a sense of belonging.
• Mentors: Facilitated by trained, screened adults who model positive, culturally relevant masculinity and provide guidance in a safe, supportive environment.
• Peer Support: Participants share experiences and uplift one another in a non-judgmental, healing-centered space that encourages personal growth and resilience.

Key Features

• Meets once a week for one hour
• Led by at least two trained and screened mentors per group
• Conducted through a trauma-informed lens, acknowledging the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Adverse Community Environments (ACEs)
• Participant-driven discussions, with topics introduced by mentors but guided by the needs and experiences of the youth

Through these circles, youth develop the tools to navigate challenges, strengthen their emotional well-being, and break cycles of harm, leading to healthier, more connected communities.