Volunteer Wayne

JANUARY NATIONAL MENTORING MONTH
The following is an excerpt from a Proclamation by the President of the United States of America in support of the designation of January as National Mentoring Month. The goal of this campaign is to recruit more mentors who can help youth from disadvantaged backgrounds achieve their potential. Mentoring has proven to be a successful prevention and intervention for at risk youth.

“Millions of Americans lend their time, talent, and energy to become mentors and make a difference in children's lives. During National Mentoring Month, we honor these caring individuals for their dedication to changing our country one heart and soul at a time.

By sharing their knowledge and experiences, mentors serve as examples for young people and help teach them the skills they need to succeed in life. They also provide stability, instill important values, and build confidence in those they assist. Mentors are soldiers in the armies of compassion, and they encourage children to set goals and achieve their dreams. people and help teach them the skills they need to succeed in life. They also provide stability, instill important values, and build confidence in those they assist. Mentors are soldiers in the armies of compassion, and they encourage children to set goals and achieve their dreams.

I appreciate all those who reach out to young people and inspire future generations to pass on this rich tradition that makes our country strong. I urge all Americans to get involved in mentoring programs…(and) to learn more about mentoring opportunities in their communities. Together, we can build a culture of service and foster a more compassionate society that recognizes the value and purpose in every single human life.”

WHO MENTORED YOU? Do you remember a special person who guided you? Then you know the difference a role model can make in a young person’s life.

PASS IT ON. MENTOR A CHILD Consider spending a small amount of time with a child. You and the child will decide activities according to your availability and mutual interests. Free training is available through two excellent programs in Wayne County, Smart Choices for Youth and the Family Y’s WARM (Wayne Area Role Models). The time commitment varies from 1 to 2 hours a week, according to the different programs in Wayne County. To learn more about mentoring visit www.mentoring.org or contact Volunteer Wayne/RSVP.