Being a mentor is about having fun. It's about sharing time and exploring the world together. A mentor provides inspiration, acceptance, challenge, a sympathetic ear and exposure to new ideas and activities. It's about sharing little moments to create big magic!
Having a mentor makes a big difference to a young person. Children matched with mentors are:
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- 80% more likely to finish high school
- 46% less likely to use drugs
- 27% less likely to use alcohol
- 52% less likely to skip school
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As well, 78% of former "Littles" who came from a social assistance background don't rely on social assistance as adults.
Even sharing just 1 hour a week as an In-School Mentor has a huge impact on the student:
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- 64% of students with an In-School Mentor developed more positive attitudes toward school
- 58% achieved higher grades in social studies, language and math
- 60% improved relationships with adults
- 56% improved relationships with peers
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Many organizations support our In-School Mentoring program by giving staff time off to make a difference in the life of a child. Mentoring benefits the child, the mentor and the mentor's employer.
Children matched with mentors show improved:
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- Confidence, self-esteem and sense of hope
- Academic grades
- School attendance
- Interactions with peers, parents and teachers
- Social and communication skills
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They're more likely to finish high school and less likely to be involved in criminal activities.
People who volunteer tend to be:
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- Happy, healthy, fulfilled
- Conscientious, productive
- Stress-free with a positive outlook on life
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The employer gains by:
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- An enhanced image in the community
- Attracting future employees
- Contributing to the development of healthy children and a stronger community
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When an organization encourages its employees to volunteer it:
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- Creates pride in the organization
- Boosts morale
- Strengthens work teams
- Increases job satisfaction
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An unexpected benefit for some companies is that the mentors blossom and take on new job responsibilities and leadership roles - especially mentoring their co-workers.