January is National Mentoring Month

January is National Mentoring Month, which spotlights mentoring and its positive impact on the lives of our youth.
For many of us, there has been someone in our lives – whether a teacher, coach, neighbor, relative or authoritative figure – who offered guidance or encouragement that helped us become who we are today.

Created in January 2002 by the Harvard School of Public Health and MENTOR, National Mentoring Month focuses national attention on the need for mentors and seeks to increase the number of mentors.

It doesn’t take special skills to become a mentor, but mainly a caring heart and an ability to give encouragement to a young person who may not have an adult around who is willing to take the time to listen to him or her.

“Effective mentoring programs can result in better school attendance, positive student attitudes, and a reduced likelihood of initiating drug and alcohol use,” stated President Barack Obama in proclaiming January 2011 National Mentoring Month.

“Mentors can provide a steady presence and share their valuable knowledge and experiences. Even brief amounts of quality time set aside by these compassionate adults can have a lasting impact on the development of a child.”

As a highlight of National Mentoring Month, on Tuesday, Jan. 25 is Thank You Mentor Day, which is intended to honor mentors.
In metro Atlanta, there are a number of volunteer mentoring opportunities.

For information about local mentoring programs and more on National Mentoring Month, visit www.nationalmentoringmonth.org.


- Marcus E. Howard