The Sharpening Project

Mentor Commitment
Waiver

Must be signed before any mentoring begins
Section 1

Commitment to Purpose

I understand that The Sharpening Project is a Christ-centered, one-on-one mentorship program designed to help young men grow in faith, character, and emotional and spiritual maturity.

By signing this waiver, I commit to serving as a mentor for one full program year (365 days).

I agree to:

  • Build an intentional, Christ-centered relationship with my student.
  • Meet with my student once a week for at least two hours in approved settings.
  • Uphold the values of integrity, humility, leadership, and Christlike love.
  • Follow all leadership guidance, check-ins, and expectations.
Section 2

Commitment to Safety & Compliance

I acknowledge that I have read, understand, and agree to follow the entire Rules & Protocols Manual, including:

One-on-One Safety

  • Meetings will occur only in public or parent-approved locations.
  • Parents will always know the who, what, when, where, and how long of each meeting.
  • I will never promise secrecy.
  • I will not encourage private or hidden conversations.

Transportation

I will only transport a student with explicit parent permission and will follow all safety laws.

Section 3

Mandatory Reporting (Tennessee Law)

I understand that in Tennessee, everyone is a mandated reporter. Failure to report is a criminal offense.

If I suspect child abuse, neglect, self-harm, suicidal intent, or threats of violence, I will:

  1. Ensure immediate safety.
  2. Call 911 if the situation is urgent.
  3. Report to Tennessee DCS or law enforcement as required by law.
  4. Notify the Program Director and Head Advisor.
  5. Complete an incident report within 24 hours.
Section 4

Communication Guidelines

I will:

  • Communicate respectfully and appropriately at all times.
  • Avoid late-night messaging.
  • Use group chats with parents when possible.
  • Use approved responses when a student asks me to keep a secret.

I will never engage in inappropriate conversations, share explicit content, or engage in romantic, flirtatious, or emotionally dependent communication.

Section 5

Spiritual and Moral Integrity

As a mentor, I commit to:

  • Walking in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.
  • Praying over my student and preparing spiritually before meetings.
  • Avoiding profanity, gossip, inappropriate media, or any behavior that compromises my witness.
  • Abstaining from pornography, drunkenness, substance use, or any illegal activity.
  • Keeping conversations encouraging, biblical, and safe.

If I am personally struggling in an area that affects my ability to lead, I agree to privately communicate with program leadership for support.

Section 6

Accountability Commitment

  • Maintain weekly check-ins with the Mentor Coordinator.
  • Attend monthly large-group gatherings.
  • Participate fully in the accountability system of The Sharpening Project.
  • Communicate immediately if I am unsure how to handle a situation.
  • Welcome correction, guidance, and support when needed.

I acknowledge that the Head Advisor serves as a mentor and accountability partner to all leadership and mentors.

Section 7

Duration & Withdrawal

This commitment lasts one full year. If at any point I am unable to continue due to major life circumstances, I agree to speak with the Program Director and Head Advisor so that a healthy transition can be made.

Section 8

Final Agreement

I affirm that I have read the full Rules & Protocols Manual, understand my legal obligations, agree to abide by every requirement, and will lead with integrity, humility, and Christlike love for one program year.

Signatures

All three signatures required before mentoring begins

Mentor Name (Print)
Date
Mentor Signature
Date
Program Director Signature
Date
Head Advisor Signature
Date

By signing above, I willingly commit to this role and to the mission of The Sharpening Project — to raise up strong, Christ-following young men who lead with courage, integrity, and freedom.