Celebrating National Mentoring Month

National Mentoring Month was first celebrated in January 2002 by President George W. Bush. It is sponsored annually by the Harvard School of Public Health, the National Mentoring Partnership (MENTOR), and the Cooperation for National and Community Service. It has also drawn support from both sides of Congress and numerous media outlets, including NBC and CBS-all to set the leaders of tomorrow on the path to success.

President Obama recently proclaimed this January would be recognized as National Mentoring Month. In a brief statement, the President spoke of the importance of mentors in the lives of this country's youth. He also asked more Americans to step forward "to support [a young person's] journey into adulthood."

Proof Mentoring Works

The mentoring relationship is a positive experience for both mentor and mentee. Statistics have shown that when influenced by a mentor, youth tend to enjoy school, improve their grades, interact socially with peers (as well as adults), and set out to achieve their goals or dreams. They are also less likely to drink, try drugs, get involved with gangs, and the epidemic of teen pregnancy. For the mentor themselves, such a bond gives them the opportunity to learn about themselves and others. It can give them a sense of pride, knowing that they are changing a life. It can also help to make them a better friend, parent and person overall!

Becoming a Mentor

Becoming a mentor is easy. No prior experience is necessary. All you need is time, the ability to listen and the kindness in your heart. If you are simply thinking about it, or know you want to get involved, read this very helpful information. Some questions to ask yourself:

• What time commitment can I make?
• Who would I like to work with? Young children, teens, or adults? Girls or boys, etc.
• Would I like to work with one person or a group?
• Do I want to help a youth learn a specific skill, pursue an interest, help with schoolwork or just be a caring adult friend?

The Alexandria Mentoring Program Needs You!

The Alexandria Mentoring Program (AMP) needs 100 adult volunteers to help shape the life of Alexandria's children.

AMP mentors impact lives by helping local kids:

• Improve grades
• Decrease crime and gang involvement
• Help lessen drug use
• Reduce teen pregnancy

Attend an AMP open house on Tuesday, January 25th from 6:00-8:30 PM at The Lyceum in Old Town and find out how easy it is to help. Remember, mentoring changes not one, but two lives!