Mentor Vermont

Dear Fellow Vermonter,

Every person needs someone who shows up for them. And every person needs someone to show up for.

This is true for all of us – no matter our age, gender, or background.

But, in these difficult times, it is especially true for young people. Not only are they going through the usual ups and downs of growing up, they are also dealing with unprecedented challenges – from the disruption of school during the pandemic to the impact of social media.

With everything that young people are facing, here in Vermont and across the country, I was especially glad to meet with an organization that is showing up for young Vermonters. Founded more than 20 years ago, MENTOR Vermont helps to support and expand mentoring opportunities across the state.   

Millions of young people, in the U.S. and Vermont, struggle to navigate daily life without a strong support system and an adult they can count on. Mentors can often fill that role. They are there to help kids with their school work, take them to a ball game, or just listen to their concerns. Studies have shown that having a mentor can have a significant impact on young people’s development socially, academically, and economically. Young people with a mentor are:

55% less likely to skip school.

78% more likely to volunteer regularly in their communities.

75% more likely to hold leadership positions in a club or sports team.

22% more likely to have experienced a strong sense of belonging while growing up.

Being a mentor doesn’t just help the young person, it can be a rewarding experience for the mentor as well.  

If you are interested in learning more about signing up to be a mentor or finding a mentor for someone, visit MENTOR Vermont’s website at mentorVT.org.

Sincerely,