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Looking Ahead...
In 2011 Building Futures provided therapeutic mentoring to nearly 1,000 at-risk youth nationwide. As we celebrate changing the lives of so many, we look toward a new year of even greater potential by inviting more volunteers to join our caring and dynamic team. If you or someone you know has been wanting to make a difference, now is the time! Sign up to be a mentor with Building Futures Today! Men strongly urged to apply.
Are you wondering if mentoring is right for you? Read these Yelp reviews from real Building Futures mentors and see for yourself
Proof It Works:
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Youth are FIVE times more likely to graduate if they have a meaningful relationship with an adult
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A study showed that deterring ONE at-risk youth from a life of crime saves society an estimated $2.6-$5.3 million
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Research shows that youth who spend time with a caring adult mentor regularly for at least one year are 46% less likely than their peers to start using illegal drugs
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Youth who have been mentored during adolescence exhibit significantly better outcomes in education (HS completion, college attendance), work, metal health, life satisfaction, problem behavior and health
Mentoring Changes TWO Lives...
Founded in 1992, Building Futures is the YMCA’s first and premier therapeutic mentoring program. We are now in 6 cities nationwide and expanding. Our unique approach helps at-risk youth overcome personal, social and family challenges through a positive adult-child relationship while also engaging parents in the process. Mentors meet with their mentees once each week for a minimum of 1 year to form a meaningful connection which changes the lives of everyone involved. In 2012 Building Futures will begin serving military families nationwide.
January Updates from Across the Nation
Nashville: will be presenting a "Mentor of the Year" Award to an exceptional mentor who changed the life of a child in 2011
San Francisco: will host a Mentor Appreciation luncheon on January 28th, emceed by the mentees themselves who will perform with their creative talents
Cincinnati: will appear on NPR Radio and PBS TV to promote mentoring
Oakland: will host a mixer to meet current mentors and hear success stories directly from mentees about how the program has positively impacted their lives.
Baltimore: will host a Mentor Breakfast where the mentees will present their mentors with custom made awards to express their gratitude
Phoenix: four Building Futures Staff members received the Spirit, Mind & Body Awards from their Association for outstanding service to their communities. Please call us to find out how you can volunteer to join our efforts to build the futures of our kids!
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10 Reasons to Be a Mentor
1) Brings meaning to your life
2) Is a way to positively impact your community
3) You get to be a kid again
4) Learn about a different culture
5) To step outside your comfort zone
6) To expand your worldview
7) Good karma
8) Get to be there for someone in need
9) Get to put your talents and skills to use
10) To give back the gifts your life has given you
3) VISIT US on Yelp, Facebook, YouTube and in the newspaper!
4) SHARE this newsletter with your social network via email, FB, etc.
5) Think about a mentor in your life and let them know how they made a DIFFERENCE for you
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