The More You Know

MENTORING

"When you become a mentor, you change two lives at once. Now that's a deal I'd take every time." - Howie Mandel, Deal or No Deal

What You Should Know...

Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings a young person together with a caring adult who provides - on a consistent and ongoing basis - guidance, support and encouragement. The partnership focuses on the mentored participant's individual needs - whether they need help with the academic, professional or personal areas of their life.

All children have the potential to succeed in life and contribute to society. However, not all children get the support they need to thrive. Mentoring has proved to be a powerful tool for helping young people fulfill their potential. Statistics show that children with mentors demonstrate solid improvements, especially in the areas of school attendance, attitude and chance for higher education. Children with mentors are less likely to be involved with gangs, violence, teen pregnancy, alcohol and drug use.

Mentors help build self-esteem, reinforce children's achievements and serve as positive role models. Mentors understand the need to assume a number of different roles during the course of a mentoring relationship, have a sincere desire to be involved with a young person and are flexible and open. Successful mentors also have the ability to listen actively, empathize, and see solutions and opportunities.

Few bonds in life are more influential than those between a young person and an adult. Mentoring doesn't just affect the young person. As a mentor, you will find yourself making a difference and having a positive effect on a young person's life. You may also be surprised to see that you will be learning more about yourself, too. Mentoring is a shared opportunity for learning and growth.

What You Can Do...

Become a mentor.

• Search online at www.mentoring.org or within your community for mentoring programs that suit your interests and availability.
• You may also find a child to mentor outside a formal mentoring program. In some instances, a natural mentoring process develops with a child who is already in your life, such as with a student, a relative, a child you might coach, or perhaps a young employee.
• If you know a child who is having trouble at school, with friends, or other serious issues, offer to listen and talk with them. If needed, encourage them to participate in a mentoring program.

To Know More...

MENTOR/The National Mentoring Partnership
www.mentoring.org