Posted on behalf of Mackenzie Hunter, United Way of the Battle Creek and Kalamazoo Region

 

Many of us can identify at least one person who encouraged and guided us as we were growing up. Maybe it was a teacher, or a coach, or a supervisor—someone who taught us new things, believed in us and helped shape us into the people we are today.

And we have the opportunity to make that same positive impact on the next generation!

National Mentoring Month reminds us of this. It’s a campaign held each January to promote youth mentoring. During this special month, United Way is encouraging you to get involved as a mentor.   

A great way to plug in is through United 4 Change. It’s a regional, business-led partnership connecting students to real people and real careers through mentorships, externships and career fairs, inspiring young people to envision their future careers. 

U4C has two mentoring programs focused on middle school students: School-Based Mentoring, in which employees from partner companies meet twice each month with assigned students; and Bigs in Business, in association with Big Brothers Big Sisters, in which students travel to local businesses to be mentored onsite.

To be a mentor, you don’t need special skills or a lot of time—just a willingness to listen and offer friendship, guidance and encouragement. Studies show that young people who have dependable adults in their lives develop positive behaviors, strong relationships and healthy, lifelong values and skills.

And you’ll be amazed by how much you get out of the experience!

Want to find out more? Check out our website at www.united-4-change.com or contact us at 269-343-2524.