You might suspect that mentoring works. It’s common sense, right? But, did you know that there is research to prove that quality mentoring can help young people stay in school and avoid substance use and delinquency? That formal youth mentoring programs can promote positive outcomes, such as improved self-esteem, social skills and career development? It’s true!
The organization was created in 2002, National Mentoring Month (NMM) focuses on national attention on the need for mentors, as well as how each of us—individuals, businesses, government agencies, schools, faith communities and nonprofits—can work together to increase the number of mentors to assure brighter futures for our young people.
The purpose of NMM is to:
• Raise awareness of mentoring in its various forms.
• Recruit individuals to mentor, especially in programs that have waiting lists of young people.
• Promote the rapid growth of mentoring by recruiting organizations to engage their constituents in mentoring.NMM continues to be a collaborative effort between the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, and Corporation for National and Community Service. In addition, Lead Local Nonprofit Partners (LLNPs) nationwide support mentoring initiatives in their respected communities. Together, we use January to celebrate mentoring and the positive effect it can have on young lives.
• Raise awareness of mentoring in its various forms.
• Recruit individuals to mentor, especially in programs that have waiting lists of young people.
• Promote the rapid growth of mentoring by recruiting organizations to engage their constituents in mentoring.NMM continues to be a collaborative effort between the Harvard School of Public Health, MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership, and Corporation for National and Community Service. In addition, Lead Local Nonprofit Partners (LLNPs) nationwide support mentoring initiatives in their respected communities. Together, we use January to celebrate mentoring and the positive effect it can have on young lives.
Each year since its launch in 2002, National Mentoring Month has enjoyed the strong support of the President and the United States Congress. Other prominent individuals who have participated in the campaign include: Maya Angelou, former President Bill Clinton, Clint Eastwood, Senator John McCain, Quincy Jones, Cal Ripken, Jr., Bill Russell, and Usher.
For now this is is happening in USA, but I think we can adopt it to Europe as well!So, especially during the month of January, find a way to get involved.