The Importance of Mentoring

The word “mentor” is derived from the Greek words meno and mentos, respectively, meaning “to remain, abide, continue, be present, wait and endure” and “with purpose, spirit and passion.”  At some point in life, every individual has had someone special who took time and made aspirations and goals seem achievable.  Many of the world's most successful people have benefited from having a mentor.  For a child with one or both parents incarcerated, the commitment and support of a mentor is beyond measure.

According to recent statistics, approximately two million minor children in the United States have at least one parent in a correctional facility.  These children suffer a disruption in the relationship with their parent, and they often struggle with the economic, social and emotional burdens created by incarceration.  Mentors can make a difference by:

• Challenging young people to excel academically and in extracurricular activities that promote healthy social interaction, team-building, collaboration and mutual benefit.
• Helping young people improve their relationships with others.
• Working alongside caregivers to reinforce a stable environment grounded in values and a belief in family.
• Exposing young people to educational and cultural events and opportunities.

When successfully implemented, mentoring programs for children of incarcerated parents have the potential to improve socio-emotional skills and produce stronger, healthier relationships between children, their peers and authority figures, leading to better outcomes in social and academic competence.