Jackie Scholl Johnson
Sauk Rapids
(Editor’s note: Johnson is the executive director
of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota.)
For more than 20 years, January has been recognized as National Mentoring Month. Although we at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Minnesota recognize the transformational power of mentoring year-round, this gives us a spotlight to shine a brighter light on the power of mentoring. We celebrate the mentors who make a profound impact on the lives of young people and lift the youth who welcome a mentor into their lives.
Mentors play a crucial role in shaping the future of our youth by providing guidance, support and inspiration. They are the unsung heroes who help young minds flourish, turning dreams into realities.
We, the BBBS team, would like to extend our appreciation to our mentors (Bigs), board and advisory members, volunteers and supporters who make our mission a reality. Without their commitment and compassion, our work would not be possible. Without our mentees (Littles), our work would be meaningless.
In the face of extraordinary challenges, the role of mentors has become even more vital. The pandemic, racial unrest and exposure to violence have cast uncertainty over our young people, making the need for guidance and support more pressing. BBBS and similar organizations have risen to the occasion, ensuring mentorship remains a beacon of hope for those who seek it, even in the most trying of circumstances.
We believe the answer to the challenges of our community and country is mentorship. It is the key to progress – the light that guides us through uncertainty, and the promise of a better tomorrow. Mentorship brings people together to develop trusting relationships that otherwise would not exist. Let us embrace the opportunity to be the guiding hand in someone’s life, as so many have done for us. The future of our nation rests on the foundation of mentorship and the hope it instills in our youth. Please join me in thanking all who make it possible, for a better today and brighter tomorrow.
If any of this resonated with you, please reach out to learn more about how you can become more involved with our program.