2017 National Mentoring Month: Be A Hero, Become A Mentor!
By Colinne McCann, Iowa Department of Public Health Youth Mentoring AmeriCorps Member
Through Youth Mentoring, 119 local youth have a superhero in their life. This January Helping Services for Youth & Families is celebrating those champions and inviting others to become a hero, during National Mentoring Month (NMM).
Mentoring has a positive impact on youth, but many youth are without this type of role model. Nine million kids in America say they are growing up without adults whom they can turn to. In this area, about 25 youth are currently waiting for a mentor are currently waiting for a mentor. Research shows that mentored youth are more apt to learn more, earn more, and live healthier lives. Mentored youth have a greater chance of avoiding negative influences, such as substance abuse, bullying, or dropping out of school.
National Mentoring Month is the perfect time for you to find your inner hero. No flying, x-ray vision, or super strength is needed to be a mentor. Youth Mentoring at Helping Services will give you the tools and training needed. Mentoring a youth does not have to be time-consuming—zap out just four hours a month for one year. You will see extraordinary results and be part of the effort to give every youth a positive role model, so that all youth feel connected, valued, and empowered.
Individuals, couples, and families can mentor a youth. Everyday heroes are needed. Request an application, or contact a mentoring staff to get your questions answered! Take action today: Be a Hero, Become a Mentor!
