Why is mentorship so important?

Many children are struggling. They face traumatic circumstances outside of their control, and sadly, end up lost, confused, and distracted. There is an alarming amount of youth who grow up in a fatherless household, experience abuse, neglect, and dysfunction in the family. Sadly, these experiences affect parts of the brain that manage self-control, planning, empathy, reasoning, and impulsivity. This has real-life implications, leading to higher rates in teen suicide, high school dropouts, homelessness, and incarceration.

There is hope though. Studies have shown that the most important factor promoting resilience is a loving, caring relationship with an adult. Kids with a positive, caring adult in their life are significantly more likely to overcome the harmful effects of trauma.

Here at CFC we’ve seen first hand that kids begin to deal with emotions better. They are more willing to open up and talk to someone about their struggles. They have an opportunity to ask questions regarding career, education, God, the Bible, and relationships.

What sets Center for Champions mentors apart is that they are grounded in their faith and even without words, kids begins to see that mentors show up and show love to them over and over again. But when they do have questions, they know they have someone they can count on to be there for them.