January is known as National Mentoring Month! This month is designated to acknowledging all mentors and celebrating all of the work they put in and the things they do. A mentor is defined as “an experienced and trusted adviser.” Mentors teach and advise often younger people, regarding what they may be facing in life. Often times, mentors are frowned upon because not many people like to admit they are in need of someone to look up to, or talk to about what they are facing. I whole-heartedly believe that having a mentor gives you an opportunity to open up about your struggles, and to have someone hold you accountable in your everyday walk through life!

Here at Montevallo High School, students involved in Dawg Impact are mentors in the Big Brother, Big Sister program. This program is where the high schoolers go to the elementary school once a week, to meet with their little to be a mentor for them. The time shared between the Bigs and Littles are is used for playing games, talking about our highs and lows of the week, and just spending quality time together. I know this program not only has a huge impact on the Littles, but for the Bigs as well! The Bigs love being able to spend time with the children that look up to them! Being a mentor is a special thing and I would highly recommend taking the chance to be one if you can!