AUSTIN, Texas \u2014 Today marks National Mentoring Day, a global celebration dedicated to educating, connecting, and honoring mentors and mentoring initiatives around the world. <\/p>\n
Here in Austin, local nonprofit Seedling<\/a> is leading the way in highlighting the impact of mentorship on young lives.<\/p>\n Dan Leal, Executive Director of Seedling and Mentor Desiree Juarez , shared more about the organization\u2019s mission with We Are Austin’s Sierra Waggoner.<\/p>\n \u201cFor 21 years, the Seedling Foundation has provided school-based mentoring for a population of children often referred to as a hidden population \u2014 children who have an incarcerated parent,\u201d said Dan Leal. \u201cWe partner with local school districts to provide caring, trained mentors who visit their mentee\u2019s school once a week and spend lunchtime together. Over time, that consistent investment of time and care makes a measurable difference in the life of a child who may not know when \u2014 or if \u2014 Mom or Dad is coming home. What the mentor often doesn\u2019t realize is how much of an impact they\u2019re making just by showing up.\u201d<\/p>\n Mentor Desiree Juarez spoke about her own experience in the program. <\/p>\n \u201cI first joined Seedling back in November of 2013,\u201d said Diseree. \u201cAt the time, my mentee was in first grade, and over the years we developed such a natural, effortless friendship. She kept me young, and we experienced so many good times together. She saw me get married and have kids, and I got to watch her join school sports teams and attend her award ceremonies.<\/p>\n Of course, we faced some challenges, too. In eighth grade, when her father was released, things didn\u2019t turn out quite like she had imagined. But Seedling was incredible \u2014 they provided me with resources and support so I could be strong for her during that time. The biggest answered prayer was seeing her walk the stage at graduation and now continue her education. It\u2019s been such a truly rewarding experience.\u201d<\/p>\n As the organization continues to grow, the need for new mentors is greater than ever. “We\u2019re looking for caring adults who can commit just an hour a week during the school year,” Leal explained. “Anyone with a heart for helping kids succeed can be a great mentor.” We currently have 50 children on the waiting list that need a mentor!”<\/p>\n Those interested in becoming a mentor can learn more about the application process and training opportunities on Seedling\u2019s website<\/a>. “It\u2019s a simple process that leads to a lifelong impact,” Leal added.<\/p>\n