January is National Mentoring Month, and Governor Janet Napolitano has issued a proclamation emphasizing the importance of mentoring and encouraging more adults to become mentors to youth in their community.
First proclaimed by President Bush in 2002, National Mentoring Month is an annual, high-profile campaign to draw attention to the need for more volunteer mentors to help America’s young people achieve their full potential. This year’s theme is “Share What You Know. Mentor a Child.”
Research shows that youth with mentors earn higher grades, miss less school, feel more confident about their schoolwork and have better relationships with their parents. In addition, youth in a positive mentoring relationship with a caring adult are less likely to begin using alcohol or other illegal drugs.
The Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism has a number of initiatives underway in recognition of National Mentoring Month. On Jan. 17th, the Commission will host the 2nd Mentoring Awards Program to recognize outstanding mentoring organizations and individual mentors. Olympia Scott of the Phoenix Mercury will serve as a guest speaker at this event. Also on Jan. 17th, the Commission is hosting a Mentor Fair to provide state employees with information on mentoring opportunities.