Kids Need Mentors

Mentors can appear in many roles; at school, at church or through organized youth programs such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, a mentor can be a teacher or coach, a librarian or rec center volunteer, or even a scout leader.

While parents can be the key role model for children, the value of connecting with a caring, trusted adult cannot be ignored. For underserved kids, mentors fill critical gaps that can help increase their social mobility in adulthood. 

A mentor is a caring adult who forms a caring relationship with the child, sharing time and experiences with them. Mentors act as positive role models, offering both emotional support and practical guidance.

Youth Villages, a national non-profit advocate for children and families, believes mentoring is crucial to a child’s development and later success.   

They list the positive effects of a mentoring relationship, both during and after their time together.

Kids who are mentored can create and enjoy stronger relationships with their family and friends. They show increased confidence and self-esteem that results in better school performance, higher graduation rates and college enrollment. They are less likely to experience addiction and more likely to adopt a healthier lifestyle. These benefits last into adulthood where they can enjoy greater family and financial success.

The benefits flow both ways. Being a mentor offers not just personal fulfillment, it builds self-confidence. Getting to understand a child’s needs gives you a new perspective that can impact other relationships. Mentoring can lead to more social interactions, too.

Mentors provide a trusted adult connection, showing children they are not alone.