Mentoring Investment
The federal government invested $100 million in local mentoring programs in 2004, its largest investment to date.
Using a combination of case studies and Q&A with experienced professionals, this policy brief examines the potential of youth mentoring programs to engage parents and strengthen families. It includes case studies, lessons learned and policy recommendations.
Mentoring programs have been shown to provide a wide range of positive influences on young people, from reduced substance use to improved school attendance, attitudes toward peers and family, and enhanced self-esteem, among others. Emerging evidence suggests that engaging parents more closely in the mentoring relationship, honoring their role and encouraging them to support their child's participation, can help strengthen the entire family.