2026 MDA Mentorship Program
Description
Mentors will provide guidance and encouragement to youth and young adults with neuromuscular disease ages 14-22. Mentors will be divided into small, career-field based groups to support 3-6 mentees. Each mentor group will lead a hands-on activity in their career field to share about that career and help participants discover their strengths and interests.

Professionals from a variety of fields are needed to volunteer as mentors for this program.

Qualifications:
  • At least 22 years of age and established in a career field, including healthcare, life sciences, scientific research, technology, computer science, engineering, applied sciences, business, finance, entrepreneurship, creative arts, communications, writing, law, government, public service, education, or a related area.
  • Desire to mentor and encourage youth to discover their skills and interests.
  • Ability to meet with MDA Staff for 2-3 planning sessions (45 minutes each) in November and December 2025.
  • Experience working with youth and/or individuals with a physical disability is a plus.
  • Must complete a criminal background check as part of the application process.


    • Responsibilities:
  • Identify 1-2 projects relevant to your industry/career that fit within the scope, budget, and time frame of the program. Projects should be appropriate for participants age 14-22 and accessible the neuromuscular disease community.
  • Work with 1-2 co-mentors to lead a group of 3-6 youth through one of those projects.
  • Collaborate with MDA staff to encourage participant engagement and accessibility of projects.
  • Mentor participants by sharing insights, encouragement, and personal experience navigating education and career.


    • It is encouraged that you complete the application in one sitting. Once your application is received, MDA Staff will contact you to schedule a brief interview.
    Dates:
    2/3/2026 - 2/26/2026
    Ages:
    Ages 22 - 99
    Cost:
    $0.00
    Availability & Application Deadline:
    This session has openings
    Registration will end on 12/4/2025.