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 have a passion of working with our youth and have been involved with mentoring late elementary age children for the past 4 years.   After my first year of mentoring, I realized it was more of a challenge to be a mentor than I originally thought and sought out solutions on how to be a better mentor.

I soon connected with Virginia Mentoring Partnership (VMP) who provides mentors (and mentoring programs) with training, coaching and tools to help kids navigate the ups and downs of today's world.   From communicating with your mentee and developming relationships, to setting boundaries and goals, VMP's training will give you the basics of being a great mentor.   (I now am also a board member with VMP)

We have a goal to train 2,000 mentors this school year so that more young people in Virginia who need a mentor will have a mentor.

At a cost of $25 per mentor trained - - how many mentors are you willing to train/support?    Your gift will go a long way in helping the cause!

Thank you for your consideration,

Andy