Strike a Match
Because every woman deserves someone in her corner.
What’s the Program?
Strike a Match is Lead(h)er’s free 1:1 mentorship program connecting Quad Cities women with experienced local women mentors.
Each match is thoughtfully curated based on professional goals, lived experience, and transferable skills to create meaningful, supportive relationships.
The program lasts 18 months, with a recommended commitment of about one hour per month. Mentors and mentees set their own schedules and goals, making the experience flexible and manageable.
Many women in our community participate as both mentors and mentees at different stages of their careers, because leadership is a lifelong journey, and we all have something to learn and something to share.
Along the way, participants can also attend optional group learning opportunities, networking events, and community gatherings hosted by Lead(h)er.
At its core, Strike a Match is about connection. Women supporting women as they grow, lead, and navigate their careers.
Our Purpose and Impact
We believe mentorship can be a powerful tool for creating equity in the workforce and building stronger communities. Strike a Match exists to multiply collective impact by fostering relationships that bridge experience gaps, open doors to new opportunities, and encourage women to step into leadership roles. Through these connections, participants gain the skills and confidence to become change agents, both in their professional circles and in the broader Quad Cities community.
How to get involved
If you’re a mentee, Strike a Match offers a supportive space to navigate career changes, launch entrepreneurial ventures, or develop leadership skills with the guidance of a mentor who has walked a similar path. If you’re a mentor, you’ll have the chance to give back, share your knowledge, and help shape the next generation of women leaders. No special credentials are required, just a willingness to listen, guide, and support.
How It Works
Step 1: Apply
Apply as either a mentor or mentee…or both.
Our small team of volunteer matchmakers carefully reviews each application to understand your goals, experiences, and personality so we can create strong matches.
Please take time to thoughtfully complete every section of the application. The more we know about you, the better we can pair you with the right match. All information is kept confidential and used solely for the purpose of creating meaningful mentorship connections.
STEP 2: Get matched
Our volunteer matchmakers personally review each application and hand-select mentor and mentee pairings.
We consider career goals, experiences, strengths, communication styles, and transferable skills to create matches that have the best chance of thriving.
Once matched, you’ll both receive a welcome email with your match details and resources to help you get started.
Step 3: Start Your Mentorship Journey
Mentorship relationships typically last 18 months, with a recommended commitment of about one hour per month.
Mentors and mentees decide how and when they connect, whether that’s coffee, a phone call, or a virtual meeting.
Participants can also engage with the broader Lead(h)er community through:
Networking and professional development events
Lead(h)er Huddles and Socials
The Fuel the Fire Gala and Golf Outing
Volunteer opportunities with local organizations