Washington, D.C. – Congressman Dave Reichert (WA-08) voiced his support today for House Resolution 908, recognizing January as National Mentoring Month, which passed the House unanimously. Reichert applauded the resolution, which acknowledges the diligent efforts of individuals and groups who promote mentoring; recognizes the contributions of the millions of caring adults and students who are already volunteering as mentors; and encourages more adults and students to volunteer as mentors.

Reichert submitted the following statement to the Congressional Record to recognize the importance of mentoring, in honor of mentoring organizations in the state of Washington, and a young constituent and his mentor for their work:

“I am pleased to recognize January 2008 as Mentoring Month and I am proud to offer my support to H.Res. 908, Supporting the goals and ideals of National Mentoring Month.   

“The history of mentorship nationwide and in my district is a rich one.  In Washington State alone, there are approximately 190 organizations specifically dedicated to placing young people into formal mentoring relationships.  These organizations spent approximately $30 million in 2006 to forge and maintain those relationships – much of that money coming from private citizens.  Most important, all that work has amounted to approximately 29,000 young people in Washington State taking part in a positive mentoring relationship.

“One organization in particular that has had a tremendous and lasting impact on many disadvantaged youth in my district is Big Brothers Big Sisters.  In 2007, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound provided more than 2,500 children with mentoring matches and has a vision to provide successful mentoring relationships for all children who need and want them, contributing to better schools, brighter futures, and stronger communities for all.

“Many of us know personally or have heard first-hand the heartbreaking accounts of young people who veered off the path of success or, because of a variety of circumstances, never even knew where to find that path.  Mentoring can be a promising approach to enriching the lives of disadvantaged children and youth by discouraging juvenile delinquency, improving school attendance and performance, and by providing positive adult role models.

“A young man from my district, Lorenzo, is a shining example of the unique way in which mentoring enriches the lives of our youth.  Lorenzo moved to Washington State from West Samoa in 2006, and immediately received mentoring help from Ken – an individual who has consistently given of his time to mentor and nurture young people in my home community.  Ken helped this young man through the discomfort of transitioning into a new environment, through the academic process, and into positive relationships with his new peers.  Upon graduating from Kent-Meridian High School – my alma mater – Lorenzo gained admission to Central Washington University and is a wonderful example of the power of responsible and caring adult guidance.

“Today, as Congress recognizes January 2008 as National Mentoring Month, I encourage all citizens, businesses, public and private agencies, religious and educational institutions to support mentoring and give young people in our community the gift of time and friendship through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound or other mentoring programs throughout Washington State and our nation.”

# # #