The challenges many young people face daily are expanding, and their worlds are becoming more complex. The barriers to access that young people need to thrive continue to rise. Young people face an opportunity desert, which means there’s an increasing lack of access to opportunities that society has yet to address fully. These barriers have made finding a positive, sustained mentor to support them even harder.

In our community, nearly 4,000 young people lack a positive, sustained mentor and are navigating at least one barrier.

Mentorship is a simple yet impactful way to empower young people – especially those who need us most—and to build more equitable communities tomorrow.

Studies show that young people who have mentors are more likely to have better connections with family and friends and practice better decision making. They also experience these life-changing outcomes:

• 92% feel a greater sense of belonging and connection to a caring adult.

• 88% secure or strengthen their sense of belonging among peers.

• 41% are less likely to engage in substance abuse.

• 82% secure or strengthen their level of engagement with school.

• 95% plan to graduate from high school, and most plan to attend college.

This holiday season, join us in creating a community of support to accept young people as they are and encourage them to fulfill their potential.

Bigger, brighter futures begin with you. Donate today to help us make a lifelong impact on a young person who needs support right now.