Title
Proclamation naming January 2008 "National Mentoring Month" in Allegheny County
Body
WHEREAS, January 2008 marks the launch of the National Mentoring Month campaign, bearing the theme, “Share What You Know. Mentor a Child.” In honor of National Mentoring Month, The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania is challenging local adults to improve the lives of our youth by volunteering to serve as mentors; and
WHEREAS, studies have made evident the remarkable effects that mentoring has on youth. Mentored youth are 46% less likely to use drugs and 27% less likely to start drinking. In addition, 59% see an improvement in their grades and a staggering 86% make the life-altering decision to pursue higher education; and
WHEREAS, The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania brings together community leaders and organizations who are eager to provide support and encouragement for our youth. Their collaborative work creates new mentoring programs, improves existing programs, helps recruit and refer mentors to local organizations, and most importantly, connects at-risk youth with quality mentoring programs; and
WHEREAS, highlights of this campaign will involve Public Service Announcements performed by General Colin Powell, R&B recording artist Usher, and music icon Quincy Jones, as well as the launch of the campaign's ReelPeople Project, participation in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service on January 21st, and the celebration of Thank Your Mentor Day on January 24th;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Allegheny County Council hereby recognizes and commends The Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania upon their continued commitment to the youth of our community and declares January 2008 as “National Mentoring Month” in Allegheny County.