Orion has resources available that mentors can access, including vocational counselors, instructors and job developers, when working with program participants in the training program. Mentors also receive video and class based training, which provides best practices. 

In addition, mentors act as a resource by giving each other insights on methods that have proven successful. "When program participants move from one training area to another the mentors will often touch base to exchange notes and give each other a heads up on what needs to be worked on," Anudeep said. "This really helps program participants get continuity in the help they receive, while learning new skills in another area and being exposed to different supervision styles."

Mentors have the flexibility to adjust the training program to best fit an individual's needs. "I'm willing and able to meet the participants I work with where that are at, halfway, or even more than halfway," Anudeep related. "For example, if someone is having a difficult time following a set of instructions, I can explain it differently and cut it down into smaller pieces, teaching one section of a process at a time. It can be a big challenge, but when you take the time to really explain something, and you see your participant begin to understand, you really feel like you helped them. Seeing all different types of people grow from that point is amazing!"