As many at Penny Lane know, one of the more recent additions to our Heart Centered Culture is Mentoring for Managers. This began in full force in January 2025 after a small group of senior managers had gone through training with Wendy. And as you probably can surmise, it is an extension of the previously operating Mentoring for New Employees program. All of this grew out of the mind of Wendy Carpenter based on observations and feedback she had previously received.
Penny Lane is a complex place, and coming into a space with 500+ employees, 50+ years of history, and a reputation for quality, committed work transforming lives can be intimidating. Exciting, but intimidating. Mentoring takes the opportunity to pair an experienced and trained staff person with someone new to help them navigate during their first few months, as well as provide them with their own support system above and beyond their coworkers or manager. The Mentoring for Managers is along the same philosophical lines, taking newer supervisors/managers/coaches, as well as long-term employees with the desire to move into management, and pairing them with mentors to help them be effective at their position while taking care of themselves, their staff, and continuing to embrace the heart centered culture.
After being a mentor and mentoring three different staff members—all still here, by the way—I was asked if I had an interest in Mentoring for Managers. I went through the training with Wendy and at the beginning of the year got my first Management Mentee: Marvin Sandoval, who oversees the AV TAY Center. I had never met Marvin (at least that I recall) and was a bit anxious as one is about meeting him and undertaking the process together. I heard good things about Marvin from several people. I was also one of the first mentors to start with an actual manager mentee. Basically, there was some pressure and anxiety on my part—much self-imposed. Marvin ended up being a great first person to mentor on the management level as we worked together to make him a better manager (although rumor is he was pretty good before I started with him) and set him up for future success at Penny Lane. Marvin recently graduated from being my mentee to now being selected to become a mentor for managers. I’m proud and excited for this next step on Marvin’s journey.
At Penny Lane, mentoring is more than just a program—it’s a reflection of our belief that every person has unique gifts, talents, and leadership potential. We know that when staff are supported through intentional relationships, they not only thrive in their roles but also find deeper meaning and connection to our mission. By fostering trust, respect, and open communication, mentoring becomes a safe space where staff can ask questions, take risks, and grow into the best versions of themselves.
One of the most powerful aspects of mentoring at Penny Lane is how it aligns with our Heart Centered Culture. We believe that people want to belong, be valued, and be seen for who they are. Mentoring offers that opportunity—whether it’s helping a new employee navigate our large agency or guiding a new manager through the complexities of leadership. It is a way of saying, “You are not alone, and together we can figure this out.” These relationships build a culture of belonging and accountability, where learning and growth are celebrated at every stage.
The impact of these programs is evident. Research shows that employees who are mentored are more likely to stay, grow, and contribute meaningfully to their organizations. At Penny Lane, we see this firsthand. Mentees often gain professional development, confidence, and a stronger sense of connection to our values, while mentors sharpen their leadership skills and expand their own perspectives. It’s a reciprocal process—both sides grow. That is the true power of mentoring: it transforms not only individuals but also the community we create together.
As we continue to expand Mentoring for Managers and strengthen our Mentoring for New Employees program, we are investing in the future of Penny Lane. Every mentorship is a story of resilience, encouragement, and hope. Whether you are a mentor or a mentee, you are helping to build a legacy of heart-centered leadership that will carry us forward. Together, we are shaping a workplace where staff feel supported, connected, and inspired to bring their whole selves to the important work of transforming lives.
