The Power of One Trusted Relationship
A Question Most People Don’t Ask
Do you have someone in your life who you would call a mentor? Most people can remember a coach, teacher, pastor, or neighbor who changed the direction of their life. And if they didn’t have someone who fits in this category, many people wish that they had someone like that.
Let’s discuss what a mentor is, why so many desire mentorship, and how you can be a part of the answer even if you never had a mentor of your own growing up!
What Is a Mentor, Really?
The definition of a mentor is, according to Merriam-Webster: “a person who gives help and advice to a less experienced and often younger person, especially in a professional or academic context.”
Mentors don’t need to be:
- perfect people
- life coaches
- highly educated teachers
- successful entrepreneurs
- people with all the answers
Instead, mentors are:
- a consistent presence
- full of encouragement
- a trusted adult
- eager to listen
- people who help see what’s possible
Sometimes mentorship really is as simple as someone willing to show up consistently for you.
Why So Many Desire Mentorship
Many adults have struggled with feeling unseen growing up, navigating hard seasons alone, and rarely experiencing someone encouraging their potential. What a different childhood they would have had if someone was in their corner on a consistent basis!
As an adult, mentorship is crucial. Having someone in your corner as you make decisions (whether it’s your career, finances, relationships, etc.) makes all the difference. A mentor has often walked in your shoes in a previous season of their life. They are able to speak into your situation with wisdom and encouragement.
If You Never Had a Mentor Growing Up…
It’s not too late! Find a trusted individual in your community who can speak life into your situation.
Here are some great ways to start looking for mentorship today:
- Reach out to someone you respect
- Join a local community group or church
- Be intentional about relationships
- Stay open and teachable
At the same time, consider becoming a mentor yourself! Be the one who shows up consistently for a young student in your community. Each week, spend time getting to know them and engage in conversations that will grow and encourage you both. Be the one who shows up consistently for a young student in your community.
By mentoring through a Kids Hope USA program at your church or organization, you can become the person that you once needed!
What Having a Mentor Can Change
Today, children all across the country are in need of mentorship. Becoming a Kids Hope USA mentor allows you the opportunity to encourage, provide wisdom, give perspective, and listen without judgement.
The impact that you can help create for a child includes increased…
- confidence
- emotional well-being
- decision-making
- resilience
- purpose
A student may forget much of the advice that was shared with them. However, they rarely forget who walked beside them throughout their childhood.
Get Connected
Take the next step and get involved through Kids Hope USA! Whether you want to learn more about mentoring through your church or organization, support the organization with a financial gift, or be in prayer for this mission, we appreciate your involvement and willingness to invest in mentoring relationships. Contact us with any questions about starting a mentoring program in your church or organization!