“To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world."
- Dr. Seuss, Oh the Places You’ll Go
Every parent and guardian wants their child to live up to their full potential, and some children and teens need additional support and help along the way. For over 35 years, our PAL program has been matching Jewish adolescents and teens (mostly from single-parent households) with young Jewish professional adults who are able to provide that additional help and support that only a role model can provide—often building lifelong friendships in the process. Each January, we celebrate and recognize the impact of mentoring relationships by recognizing National Mentoring Month.
“Leading by the power of their example, mentors represent the very best of America’s spirit of community and care for one another,” said President Biden recently. “During National Mentoring Month, we honor all the Americans who give their time and their hearts to mentor our Nation’s young people.”
Did you know that-
- 58% percent of young people say their mentor has supported their mental health
- 74% of those who had a mentor say that person contributed significantly to their later success in life
- Mentored youth who experienced adversity during their early years were more than twice as likely to become volunteers in their community
- 85% of young people with a mentor say the relationship has helped them with issues related to education and school
- 95% of educators say that every student can benefit from having a one-on-one mentor, 82% said mentoring improves academic outcomes, and 83% say it helps students learn skills that support success
- Mentored students are 55% less likely to skip school, 78% more likely to volunteer in their communities, and 130% more likely to hold leadership positions
- 60% of former mentees under 40 years old still seek advice from their mentors
Data sources:
Mentoring benefits both the mentor and the mentee in profound and lasting ways. To make an impact through our PAL program, click here.