According to statistics provided in a report by the National Mentoring Partnership, youth who had mentors were 46% less vulnerable to illegal drug use and 27% less interested in drinking (The Value of Mentoring, 2015). With education being a critical part of a youth’s success, the study also states youth were 52% less likely to skip school when a mentor was involved. Mentors guide youth to planning academic and career goals, utilize personal and professional contacts to provide networking opportunities for youth and help in providing soft skills such as resume writing and interviewing preparation for a job.
Time is valuable and it can influence a youth to make better choices and look outside of their circumstance to see hope. Mentors create a lasting impression to make a positive difference in a life of a child. There are many youth in our community who need the guidance of someone who cares about them. Consider sharing your talents with someone who needs you by becoming a Court Appointed Youth Advocate (CAYA).
Join us for our CAYA Bowl-a-Thon event on January 31st at Casey Lanes in La Porte from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Find a team or join an existing one. Contact us today to find out how you can participate or become a volunteer at 219-324-3385 or visit us at www.lpcasa.com.