Mentoring, at its core, guarantees young people that there is someone who cares about them, assures them they are not alone in dealing with day-to-day challenges, and makes them feel like they matter. Research confirms that quality mentoring relationships have powerful positive effects on young people in a variety of personal, academic, and professional situations. Ultimately, mentoring connects a young person to personal growth and development, and social and economic opportunity. Yet one in three young people will grow up without this critical asset.
One study estimates that the human potential lost as a result of the educational achievement gap is the economic equivalent of a permanent national recession. (Mentoring: At the crossroads of education, business and community, 2015) By preparing young people for college and careers, mentoring helps develop the future workplace talent pipeline. (Mentoring: At the crossroads of education, business and community, 2015) Mentors can also prepare their mentees for professional careers and assist with their workplace skills by:
The number of ways mentoring can help a young person are as varied as the people involved in each program. While the lists and statistics can be impressive, personal stories can be even more impressive. Take a look at some mentoring success stories to see the impact of mentoring in real life.
By being a consistent adult presence in a young person’s life mentors can offer advice, share life their experiences, and help a young person navigate challenges.
Youth who meet regularly with their mentors are:
Mentoring has significant positive effects on two early warning indicators that a student may be falling off-track:
The Moyer Foundation is proud to be a part of the National Mentoring Partnership. Mentoring is an important element of both Camp Erin and Camp Mariposa programs. Mentoring is an effective way to support children who have been impacted by the addiction of a family member. Children and teens that can rely on supportive adults have increased independence, stronger social skills, a better ability to cope with difficult emotional experiences, and positive day-to-day coping skills. Camp Mariposa participants have planned social and educational activities with their mentors in between the camp weekends.Find a Mentor