Do you have a Mentor?

I recently came across a study conducted by Child Trends that had some nice findings on the role and significance of mentors in the lives of young people. The summary of the study is below:

"Child Trends conducted a synthesis of experimental evaluations of 19 mentoring programs for children and youth, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, to determine how frequently these programs work to improve such outcomes as education, mental health, peer and parent relationships, and behavior problems, and what lessons can be learned to improve outcomes. Mentoring “is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support and encouragement aimed at developing the competence and character of the mentee”. While parents fill this role for most children, some children find themselves without such a relationship. In fact, it is estimated that 20 percent of youth do not have caring adults in their lives—representing 8.5 million youth. Even children who have a positive caring relationship with an adult can benefit from additional positive relationships."

Elsewhere it stated: "Research finds that positive relationships are important for children and youth. Based on the findings of this synthesis, a variety of approaches that incorporate mentoring can be effective."

Check out this video from Josh Shipp, a former foster youth that talks about the role of mentors in his life and the young people he works with.