Be a Mentor

Mayors have a unique role to play in city government. Setting the agenda, making critical appointments and leading during disasters are just a few of their duties. They are often viewed as the face of the city and serve in an executive role helping bridge the city council and the staff. For a newly elected mayor, understanding and filling these roles can be a daunting challenge. The Iowa Mayors Association understands the challenge and has developed a Mentor Program to provide newly elected mayors a resource for support, guidance and encouragement from veteran mayors.

Mentoring Program Guidelines

Each newly-elected mayor participating will be assigned an experienced participating mayor within the program. During the first year, mentor and mentee mayors agree to:

• Schedule an initial meeting to establish the mentor/ mentee relationship;
• Visit each other’s city at least one time;
• Meet in person or communicate by phone or email as often as needed, at least once a month.

Mentor Responsibilities

• Initiate contact with the mentee;
• Provide ongoing guidance, support and encouragement;
• Share common practices;
• Assist with resources, tools and information; and
• Identify opportunities and encourage involvement in training, district meetings, regional workshops, and events.

Mentee Responsibilites

• Ask questions and solicit advice;
• Initiate contacting the mentor when needed;
• Be willing to listen to the mentor; and
• Devote time to the mentoring program.

The Iowa Mayors Association will make every effort to assign a mentee with a mentor serving in like size city and closely related by services and location. To become a mentor or mentee, complete the application form. Please complete and submit the contact us form or contact Alan Kemp, at alankemp@iowaleague.org or communications@iowaleague.org for more information about the Mentoring Program.