The Value of a Mentor

The Borden Braves Foundation has a goal to create a mentoring program to support Borden High School students as they consider their post-high school path options.  Mentors can be alumni or other foundation members, who have a passion to share their experience and expertise in their field with a student who may be considering a similar path.  Mentors will provide career coaching, support and networking as students explore such paths, ultimately leading to a better foundation for reaching their career goals.

As an alumnus, wouldn’t it be nice to know you are able to give back to the same school that helped to start you on the path to the success you have had in your career.  Most likely, you had a teacher or coach that acted as a mentor or career coach, one that encouraged you to strive for the goals and dreams you had back then.  Think, how did that person have an impact on you?  Where would you be without their guidance and support?

Maybe you are not an alumni.  That’s okay.  Our community is full of successful people in all walks of life who have that same love and passion for seeing the students at Borden High School succeed.  If that describes you, I encourage you to get involved.

The Borden Braves Foundation wants to make sure every high school student is encouraged to explore their career choices with the knowledge that they have a partner who can help them through some of the unknowns.  We cannot make this possible without the support of our community and alumni.

Why is mentoring important?

Research provides strong evidence that students greatly benefit from the support of a mentor.  A mentor can guide and support in many ways, including academically.  Mentors have been credited as key factors in the success of many world leaders and businesses.

Among some of the benefits to students who have mentor support include, but are not limited to…

• Increased high school graduation rate
• Lower high school dropout rates
• Healthier relationships and lifestyles choices; less likely to use illegal drugs and alcohol.
• Enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence
• Stronger relationships with parents, teachers and peers
• Improved interpersonal skills
• Earning higher grades, produces better quality class work
• Better attendance

Now that you know more about the vision behind the mentoring program, you may be thinking about giving it a try and passing on your knowledge.  I want to encourage you to follow through on the thought.  The rewards for mentoring a student are just as great as those the student receives, which can include…

• Enhanced skills and relationships within your profession
• Develop/Maintain talent in your industry
• Giving back to your industry
• Growing leadership skills

So, register today to be a Borden Braves Foundation member and help impact the lives and futures of the students at Borden High School.