Mentorship Program

The National Capital Area Paralegal Association (NCAPA) recognizes the value of mentoring as an instrument of organizational learning. This program will provide an opportunity for successful individuals (mentors) to share wise counsel, knowledge, and offer advice to new members or paralegals. This interactive mechanism will not only enhance the skills of seasoned NCAPA members but also enhance professional and career skills of new paralegals entering the organization. The mentor can help mentees learn to handle various situations, enhance their developmental skills, and avoid some of the pitfalls that can potentially side track a career or delay promotion opportunities.

This mentoring program has the potential of broadening skills, experience, and expertise throughout the organization. The Mentoring Program, which launched in 2014 by GW Paralegal Students Pascalle Goddard (current NCAPA Board of Director) and Christine Villarreal (former NCAPA Board of Director), is designed to become an integral part of NCAPA's culture to help new members and paralegals realize their goals and potentials. Additionally, it is intended to help all members to develop personally and professionally, and to enhance their working relationships. This program will match experienced paralegals with entry level or paralegal student members from a variety of legal area and expertise.

Mentorship Program 2019 Upcoming Events:

• Jan. 25, 2019 - Mentor/Mentee Applications Deadline;
• Feb. 08, 2019 - Mentor/Mentee Matched Email Notifications will be sent out;
• Feb. 20, 2019 - NCAPA Mentorship Kick-off Event.

If you are interested in serving as an NCAPA mentor or mentee, please apply using the application forms linked below and submit via e-mail to the Mentorship Committee at [email protected] along with any questions you may have.

Mentorship Program Handbook
Mentor Enrollment Form
Mentee Enrollment Form
Mentoring Agreement
Mentoring Action Plan
Mentorship Program FAQs

Mentorship Program Objectives:

• Career Development;
• Improve and Effectively Manage Skills in the Workplace; and
• Improve the Paralegal Profession and Morale.

Eligibility Requirements:

Participating as a mentor or mentee is strictly voluntary; however, the following requirements must be next:

• Current/active member of NCAPA

Program Guidelines:

• Both parties must keep all information discussed in sessions confidential within the NCAPA's ethical parameters and restrictions;
• Participation on behalf of each party is a must;
• Must make a six (6) month commitment to the program;
• Mentors and mentees in the program must attend one occasion of formal training within the six (6) months hosted by the Mentorship Committee; and
• Participants must meet at least once a month for one (1) hour during the formal mentoring process.

Contact: Pascalle Goddard, Mentorship Committee Chair ([email protected])