MentorSHIP: Helping youth navigate rough seas

"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give."

-Winston Churchill

In 1904, a journalist by the name of Ernest Coulter lamented the harsh treatment of juveniles in the court system, stating to a group church members that "there is only one possible way to save that youngster: to have some earnest, true man volunteer to be his big brother, to look after him, help him to do right, make the little chap feel that there is at least one human being in this great city ... who cares whether he lives or dies." That day, Coulter gained 39 volunteers who became the founders of what is now the largest mentoring program in the country--Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Since then, mentorship programs have sprung up from many sources. Small towns, large universities and even nationally-endorsed programs such as the MENTOR/National Mentoring Partnership have connected young people with somebody to encourage him or her to simply be more. Maybe it is more involved on campus, more motivated in school, or finding more reasons to smile. Whatever it may be, mentoring revolves around the idea that every person has something to give back, and in turn, something to learn. Mentorship is a two-way flow of information that participants agree has the power to change lives. The included quote by Winston Churchill strikes at the very nature of mankind--the most fulfillment in life comes from giving, not from earning. While we, as Americans, constantly seek to prove otherwise, every poll and study shows that humans find the longest-lasting happiness from altruistic activities. Some label it reaching the "meaningful life," a stage where we no longer focus on only finding joy for ourselves, but rather obtain that joy from knowing we positively changed the life of another.

Becoming a mentor is an easy way to move toward this stage. Every person has something to give. Are you a college student studying business? Mentor a high school student about personal finance. If you love children, there are dozens of ways to help them with activities ranging from sports to something as basic as being there with a congratulatory high-five when they get an A on their homework. An hour or two a week is a small time commitment, and it really can make an impact, particularly with young people. Growing up is when attitudes and ambitions are cultivated, and many youth struggle to find a role model and direction, particularly in lower income areas where both parents often work and going to college is not the norm. If a mentor can be there to remind them of goals and be a bright source of hope and encouragement, that child will see himself or herself in a new light both at the present time and as he or she imagines the future. Many "at-risk" children just need someone to believe in them in order to soar.

So, if you are looking for ways to fulfill your 5-hour pledge this year, become a mentor and help a young person navigate around the many obstacles and deterrents that life places in their paths. All children have sails capable of billowing in the wind, they might just need someone like you to be that first gust.

Gainesville Mentorship Opportunities:
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Florida
Foster Grandparents of Alachua County
Take Stock in Children
Master Money Mentor Program
Kids Count of Alachua County
...and plenty of opportunities if you are a UF student:CHAMPS

SOAR (Strengthening Opportunities and Reaching Out)
Project MASCOT
After School Gators

Of course, there are many more opportunities out there, but hopefully this will help you get started!

Don't forget to donate blood during the Vampire's Blood Drive! You still have until this Friday! Also, be sure to make it out to the Vampire's Ball on Friday, October 29th. Celebrate a successful blood drive in your best costume with us at Sharab Lounge...if you dare!


--The Pledge 5 Team