The Lunch Buddy Mentoring Manual (2026) is a research-driven resource published by the Council on Adolescents to support both new and experienced mentors in the Lunch Buddy Program. Inside, you'll find program guidelines, practical mentoring strategies, conversation starters and activities, as well as insights from current mentoring research and youth development theory.
Because mentoring is a deeply personal journey, no two mentoring relationships will look exactly alike. Rather than providing a one-size-fits-all approach, this manual offers a foundation of knowledge, tools, and best practices to help mentors build meaningful connections with the young people they serve.
Whether you're preparing for your first Lunch Buddy meeting or looking to strengthen an existing mentoring relationship, this resource is a great place to start!
Lunch Buddy Mentoring Manual (pdf)
DownloadThe Council on Adolescents publishes a growing collection of mentor zines and reflection guides. These short, accessible booklets explore the challenges, questions, and opportunities that often arise in mentoring relationships. Drawing from mentoring research, lived experience, and real mentor stories, these guides are designed to address common mentoring challenges, encourage reflection, and deepen mentors' understanding of the young people they serve. Whether read in a single sitting or revisited over time, these booklets offer practical insights and fresh perspectives for anyone committed to showing up for a young person.