Be a mentor. Make a difference. 

Everyday tips, January 2009

Looking for a meaningful resolution for 2009? Consider becoming a mentor.  Mentors provide youth with a supportive, trusting relationship with an adult, as well as access to new experiences.  And it’s fun, too!

Mentors and their mentees typically participate, once or twice each month, in an activity focused on academic improvement and positive behavior development. Consider how you can benefit your mentee by incorporating your interests into the activities. For example, take a cultural outing to a local museum or theater performance; explore various careers with a day at the office; teach about the benefits of team work through sporting activities; or provide academic support with a night of dinner and homework help.

United Way supports mentoring activities because research shows that youth who have mentors are more likely to stay in school, have better relationships with their families, increase self-esteem, and avoid the use of drugs or alcohol.

Whether you are looking for a mentor for your child or you are interested in becoming a mentor, visit the Mentoring Resource Center, a division of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Miami, or call (305) 644-0066.