On January 3rd, 2012 President Obama declared January as National Mentoring Month.
“Every day, mentors help young Americans face the challenges of growing into adulthood. By setting a positive example and sharing their time, knowledge and experience, mentors play an essential role in preparing our Nation's youth for a bright future. During National Mentoring Month, we celebrate the contributions of all those who cultivate a supportive environment for the next generation, and we recommit to expanding mentorship opportunities across our country” Obama said.
This January is the 11th anniversary of National Mentoring Month. The month was established as a media campaign to find volunteer mentors for youth.
Anyone can become a mentor and make a difference in their community. Some of the best ways to mentor others often involve lending an ear or developing a newfound friendship.
No matter where you are, there’s always an opportunity and place you can find to mentor someone in need. The following are some common places to mentor:
- Schools
- The community
- The faith-based community
- Business
- Through the internet
NationalMentoringMonth.com gives you ten things you can do this January in honor of National Mentoring Month!
- Becoming a mentor in your community with Big Sister Association of Greater Boston or Boston Area Health Education Center’s Mentoring Program.
- Learning more about mentoring others.
- Partner with a mentoring organization like the Mass Mentoring Partnership.
- Think about those in your life who have mentored you over the years and write them a letter or post a tribute on Facebook or online.
- Read the research about mentoring.
- Serve your community on Martin Luther King Day by deciding to become a mentor.
- Make a donation to a mentoring organization in your community.
- Go on YouTube on January 26th (Thank Your Mentor Day) and watch the National Mentoring Month videos.
- And finally, explore ways to help children succeed academically through your mentorship.
