Rob Bishop: “I rise today in support of House Resolution 990, expressing support for the designation of January 2010 as National…”

“I rise today in support of House Resolution 990, expressing support for the designation of January 2010 as National Mentoring Month, and I am glad we are doing it before it's over. National Mentoring Month celebrates mentors who are positively impacting the lives of people and highlights the need for additional mentors to make themselves available for America's youth. Mentoring is a structured and trusting relationship that brings young people together with caring individuals who offer guidance, support, and encouragement, all aimed at developing the confidence and character of the mentee. A mentor is an adult who, along with parents, provides a young person with support, counsel, friendship, and positive reinforcement. By all estimates, almost 18 million young people--nearly half of the population of young people between the ages of 10 and 18--live in situations that put them at risk of not living up to their potential. Without immediate intervention by caring adults, they can make choices that not only undermine their futures but, ultimately, the economic and social well-being of our Nation. Research shows that formal, high-quality mentoring focused on developing the competence and character of the mentee promotes positive outcomes such as improved academic achievement, self-esteem, career development, and social skills.”