While it is natural to want to give your YouthFriend a holiday or birthday present, gift giving is not encouraged for many reasons:

• Some parents may not have the money to give their children gifts. Therefore, parents might feel uncomfortable.
• Other students may be hurt if they do not receive gifts.
• If you give a gift for one holiday but not another it may confuse a child.
• It is never appropriate to give money.

Also, set the gift-giving expectation early, as students often feel obligated to return the favor but don’t have the means to do so.

If you feel there is a need to give a gift, consider these options:

• An inexpensive, educational book is acceptable.
• Give pencils or other school supplies to your student's entire class. Discuss with your mentee’s teacher the best approach for doing so.

Following these gift-giving guidelines can help ensure you have a healthy mentoring relationship. Contact your YouthFriends Coordinator if you have any questions.