Celebrating National Mentoring Month: 5 Mentoring Programs That Change Lives

January is the month of creating resolutions, making changes and setting goals for the new year. If you’re still working out your goals or resolutions, here’s one to consider: becoming a mentor. January is not only the month of fresh starts – it’s National Mentoring Month! Here are 5 great mentoring programs in Central Indiana to consider helping this year. Girls’ Inc. MissionInspiring all girls to be strong, smart, and bold.Type of mentoringMentor and teach a group of young girls on economic literacy, conflict resolution, beauty or media literacy. Girls Inc. provides easy-to-use lesson plans and program supplies, plus comprehensive training and ongoing support. Help young girls build confidence, learn life skills and create lasting friendships.DurationOne hour a week for six weeks, anytime between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.LocationOutreach locations throughout greater Indianapolis.Age range6-8, 9-11, and 12-14How to sign upFill out this form and a Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis staff member will contact you within the next business day with next steps. Big Brothers Big Sisters MissionProvide children facing adversity with strong and enduring, professionally supported 1-to-1 relationships that change their lives for the better, forever.Type of mentoringBecome a friend, confidant and support system for a local youth through a one-on-one mentoring relationship. Enjoy a variety of activities together and help your Little develop higher aspirations, gain confidence, excel in school and build better relationships.DurationSpend 2-4 hours a month participating in activities together for at least one year.LocationYour little will be located within a 20-minute drive of your work or home.Age range8-18How to sign upSign up here, then a BBBSCI staff member will be in touch within two business days. United Way’s Emerging Leaders Mentorship Program MissionPairing young professionals with an established community leader to help each gain an outside perspective on important situations in life.Type of mentoringGive advice, encouragement and support to a local young professional to help them along their professional and personal journey. Enjoy casual activities together and develop a strong, meaningful relationship both parties will learn and grow from.DurationMeet at least once a quarter for a year.LocationThroughout Central Indiana.Age range22-40How to sign upEmail Ose Agho for more information on how to become a Leader in Giving and an Emerging Leaders mentor. Check out this blog article to see how impactful being a mentor can be! Boys & Girls Club MissionEvery young person deserves to live a life filled with hope and opportunity. Because we care about our young people, we provide a safe, educational and positive atmosphere where they can prosper and reach their full potential.Type of mentoringMentor youth in a variety of ways, from helping them with schoolwork and planning their educational future to coaching them in sports or teaching them how to do new activities. Whether you want to develop a one-on-one relationship or teach a group, there’s lot of options!DurationFlexible hours based on your schedule and availability.LocationAt a Boys & Girls Club near you – 13 in the Indianapolis area alone!Age range6 -18How to sign upCheck out the various volunteer options here, then fill out a form and an employee of Boys & Girls Club will contact you by email. Starfish Initiative MissionInspire, encourage, and prepare promising, economically disadvantaged students for college and career success by pairing economically disadvantaged high school students one-on-one with college-educated mentors.Type of mentoringProvide intensive, one-one-one coaching and mentoring to help an at-risk and economically disadvantaged high school student achieve their academic and life goals, including graduating from high school and college.DurationMeet twice a month for a few hours with a two-year commitment.LocationThroughout Marion County.Age range12-18How to sign upRead this FAQ sheet for all the info, then fill out this form and a Starfish Initiative employee will contact you within two business days.No matter what type of mentoring you do, your time spent with a local youth or young professional will make a huge impact. If you’re wanting to make change in our community, this is a great way to start!