How to Change Someone’s Life in 1 Hour a Week
Chances are, you can tell a story of someone who helped you when you were a kid. Do you still remember that person’s name? Did you know that 22% of youth surveyed today can’t name a single adult who encourages their growth, provides support, or expands their horizons? And even here in the Brookings area, 25% of teens report feeling lonely, anxious, or depressed. What can we do about that?
Since 2003, the Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program has provided one-on-one, community-based youth mentoring for K-12 students. BCYMP mentors volunteer an hour a week to offer encouragement and guidance to youth who need the support of a stable, caring adult in their lives.
Together, BCYMP mentoring pairs build friendships and lifetime skills, expanding the horizons of students here in our own community. One mentor recently shared that no one in his mentee’s family had graduated high school—but that’s going to change soon. Not only is the mentee on track to graduate, but now he plans to attend tech school, too!
Research shows that mentored youth have higher academic and leadership outcomes, as well as greater work-preparedness and economic mobility. They are also less anxious, depressed, and lonely. In the past year, BCYMP was able to provide mentors for more than 100 students—but there are still 58 students on the waiting list! And there’s a particular need for male mentors of all ages (18+) to be matched with many waiting young men.
Here at GracePoint, we’re committed to stepping intentionally into the unique stories God has given each and every one of us, living life on purpose—to be aware and care about the people around us. We’ve partnered with BCYMP for exactly this reason. The committed attention of a caring adult mentor affirms the value of every student matched, assuring young people they matter and they do not have to face their challenges alone.
And don’t let the word “mentor” scare you! Connecting with a student often involves simply sharing activities or interests together, such as going to movies, bowling, woodworking, fishing, playing video games, grabbing lunch, or finding ways to serve in the community. If there’s a hobby or pastime you enjoy, chances are, your mentee can benefit from sharing it with you!
Take a next step! Learn more about BCYMP mentoring during an upcoming informational meeting:
These casual get-togethers will provide an opportunity to hear about the program, ask questions, and apply to become a new mentor, OR you can fill out the application online any time HERE. New mentor training will take place at GracePoint on October 17th, and the training can also be completed online at your own pace if you prefer that option.
Get started today! Contact bcymentoring@gmail.com or visit www.bcymentoring.org for more information.
Chances are, you can tell a story of someone who helped you when you were a kid. Do you still remember that person’s name? Did you know that 22% of youth surveyed today can’t name a single adult who encourages their growth, provides support, or expands their horizons? And even here in the Brookings area, 25% of teens report feeling lonely, anxious, or depressed. What can we do about that?
Since 2003, the Brookings County Youth Mentoring Program has provided one-on-one, community-based youth mentoring for K-12 students. BCYMP mentors volunteer an hour a week to offer encouragement and guidance to youth who need the support of a stable, caring adult in their lives.
Together, BCYMP mentoring pairs build friendships and lifetime skills, expanding the horizons of students here in our own community. One mentor recently shared that no one in his mentee’s family had graduated high school—but that’s going to change soon. Not only is the mentee on track to graduate, but now he plans to attend tech school, too!
Research shows that mentored youth have higher academic and leadership outcomes, as well as greater work-preparedness and economic mobility. They are also less anxious, depressed, and lonely. In the past year, BCYMP was able to provide mentors for more than 100 students—but there are still 58 students on the waiting list! And there’s a particular need for male mentors of all ages (18+) to be matched with many waiting young men.
Here at GracePoint, we’re committed to stepping intentionally into the unique stories God has given each and every one of us, living life on purpose—to be aware and care about the people around us. We’ve partnered with BCYMP for exactly this reason. The committed attention of a caring adult mentor affirms the value of every student matched, assuring young people they matter and they do not have to face their challenges alone.
And don’t let the word “mentor” scare you! Connecting with a student often involves simply sharing activities or interests together, such as going to movies, bowling, woodworking, fishing, playing video games, grabbing lunch, or finding ways to serve in the community. If there’s a hobby or pastime you enjoy, chances are, your mentee can benefit from sharing it with you!
Take a next step! Learn more about BCYMP mentoring during an upcoming informational meeting:
- Elkton School - September 16, 7PM
- Deubrook Junior-Senior High School - September 23, 7PM
- GracePoint - September 26, 5:30PM
These casual get-togethers will provide an opportunity to hear about the program, ask questions, and apply to become a new mentor, OR you can fill out the application online any time HERE. New mentor training will take place at GracePoint on October 17th, and the training can also be completed online at your own pace if you prefer that option.
Get started today! Contact bcymentoring@gmail.com or visit www.bcymentoring.org for more information.
