National Mentoring Month, 2008

Proclamation 8212 of December 19, 2007

National Mentoring Month, 2008

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Millions of Americans lend their time, talent, and
energy to become mentors and make a difference in
children's lives. During National Mentoring Month, we
honor these caring individuals for their dedication to
changing our country one heart and soul at a time.

By sharing their knowledge and experiences, mentors
serve as examples for young people and help teach them
the skills they need to succeed in life. They also
provide stability, instill important values, and build
confidence in those they assist. Mentors are soldiers
in the armies of compassion, and they encourage
children to set goals and achieve their dreams.

My Administration is committed to helping our Nation's
children realize their full potential by expanding
opportunities for Americans to mentor. To raise
awareness of the challenges facing our youth and
encourage adults to connect with young people through
family, school, and community, First Lady Laura Bush is
leading the Helping America's Youth initiative. Through
the USA Freedom Corps, we are connecting individuals
with volunteer opportunities, including mentors who
work with young people in schools and community
organizations. By encouraging Americans to mentor, we
are doing our part to see that more of America's
children grow into strong, confident, and successful
adults.

I appreciate all those who reach out to young people
and inspire future generations to pass on this rich
tradition that makes our country strong. I urge all
Americans to get involved in mentoring programs and to
visit the USA Freedom Corps website at volunteer.gov to
learn more about mentoring opportunities in their
communities. Together, we can build a culture of
service and foster a more compassionate society that
recognizes the value and purpose in every single human
life.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim January 2008 as National
Mentoring Month. I call upon all Americans to recognize
the importance of mentoring, to look for opportunities
to serve as mentors in their communities, and to
observe this month with appropriate activities and
programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
nineteenth day of December, in the year of our Lord two
thousand seven, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-second.