I’ve recently started volunteering with a unique program which seeks to bridge the divide in educational attainment between northern and southern Canadian youth.

Following a mentorship model, professionals sign up to be matched with a youth in Yukon or Nunavut to provide advice, information and motivation to a high school student. You are paired up based on your profession and the student’s desired career.

As with any volunteer opportunity, it’s not one-sided. Not only does it feel good to connect with a youth interested in your career and provide information and advice, it’s also a nice opportunity to reflect on what skills and characteristics were necessary for your success. It gives you an opportunity to pause for a moment, think about your job and why you do it.

Here is a brief description of the DreamCatcher Mentoring model:

DreamCatcher Mentoring provides northern youth with an opportunity to partake in one-on-one career counseling and exploration with a Canadian mentor working in the student’s aspired career field. Recognizing the importance of indigenous tradition and northern values, DreamCatcher Mentoring also encourages students to take steps locally to realize their educational and career goals.

If you’re passionate about your career and interested in giving back, I encourage you to apply to be a mentor through their website, or follow their updates on Twitter (@dcmentoring).