I know the positive impact that mentors have played in my life.

However, there are more than 150,000 young people in Virginia in need of a mentoring relationships with caring adults. And more than 1,500 children are on waiting lists for mentors in local programs.

This is why I'm supporting the Virginia Mentoring Partnership (VMP) and its 2016 Back-To-School Campaign. VMP provides training and on-going support to mentors and mentoring programs across Virginia to increase the quality and quantity of mentoring for Virginia's youth.

Kids who have mentors are less likely to drop out of school or engage in drug and alcohol use, and are more likely to go to and stay in college. They have a more positive outlook on their futures, and stronger relationships with peers and parents.

I've proudly served on the Virginia Mentoring Partnership board for the past five years. I'm passionate about the work we do. 

VMP is trying to raise $50,000 by September 1, 2016 to help us provide training and support for mentors and mentoring organizations across the Commonwealth to meet the demand for the upcoming school year.

Your gift will go a long way in helping. Any amount will make a difference.

Thankfully yours!

Jeff