In my day-to-day role as CEO of a non-profit behavioral health services organization, I see the positive impact mentors have on the lives of the community members we serve, and the employees I help lead.
I’ve seen former drug addicts radically change their lives and then give back by guiding a desperate addict to sobriety. I’ve seen seasoned social workers willingly support interns as they learn to navigate a mental health career. I’ve even seen children function as mentors when they urge a peer to “do the right thing.”
What I’ve learned from these experiences, and my own personal journey, is that no one is “self made.” Everyone needs a mentor to truly succeed in life.
If you think logically about the need for mentoring, it makes sense. We are designed to be relational beings. We exist to be in relationship with others. We feel better, we do better, and we are better when we’re connected with others. And that’s the foundation of mentoring: connection.
Sadly, today’s culture has become increasingly individualistic. We cling to personal independence and self-sufficiency, when we really need interdependence and meaningful relationships. We’ve exchanged community participation for individual super heroes (you name it, “super mom,” “super student,” etc.) who save the day.
Don’t get me wrong, I believe strongly in personal responsibility and the need for individuals to take charge of their lives. It’s a foundational part of my own success. But we need a balanced approach, one that involves both personal responsibility and involvement from others. Beyond this, we must make it acceptable to say, “I need help,” and remove any negative labels associated with needing support.
The bottom line is, everyone needs someone. Whether you call it a mentor or a friend, it’s important to build those connections to enjoy a positive future. The need for strong mentoring relationships is even more critical for young people who face challenges today that I couldn’t have imagined when I was a child.
That’s why I’ve joined forces with a committee working on a local initiative that supports the needs of young people. It’s called Step UP! and it’s a program sponsored by the Gary Chamber of Commerce to develop awareness and create positive change in low-performing schools in the area. The essence of the program is mentoring young people, which is why I’m so passionate about it.
I hope reading this post will spark a bit of passion in you too. Over the next several months I’ll share ideas and insights that can help in the mentoring process. I’ll also keep you posted on the great things happening with the Step UP! program here in Gary, Indiana. Although you may be reading this blog from outside of my local area, I know that you’ll be able to take away some ideas to implement in your own community.
So please continue to visit and add to the conversation by posting your comments or questions.
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