Be a mentor and change a child's life

I can do that — an expression of self-confidence, purpose and desire to achieve.

I can do that — a simple sentence with great meaning; four words we must impart to all of Florida's students.

But the meaning behind these words is difficult to grasp for many young people who are faced with challenges and difficulties at school and at home. That's where you and I come in, to act on these four words — I can do that. I can help a child; I can change a life; I can mentor a student.

January is National Mentoring Month, and as a mentor myself, I urge all Floridians to step forward this year and make a difference. Whether in elementary, middle or high school, young, eager minds are in need of your guidance and wisdom. It doesn't matter if you're a CEO, homemaker, government worker or college student. Find an hour or so a week to share your life experiences and compassionate heart to help a child find his or her way.

While governor, I spent eight years mentoring several young men who were in middle school. One day a week we would spend an hour together working on schoolwork and just sharing a few stories. I probably gained more out of our weekly visits than they did. Our mentoring sessions put a human context around education, and it grounded me to be hanging out with middle school students.

The impacts of systemwide youth mentoring programs are well documented, clearly illustrating benefits to both youths and society — including significantly reducing the likelihood of drug use, engaging in a fight and skipping school. Currently, Florida has more than 200,000 mentors working with students, but many more young people are still waiting for a guiding hand and encouraging words.

I'm greatly encouraged by the renewed focus on student mentoring by Gov. Rick Scott. His call for the profit and nonprofit private sector to take responsibility for the education of Floridians through mentoring initiatives shows great promise as we empower our students reach their full potential.

I can do it — and you can do it. Please make this the year you become a mentor. To learn more visit the Florida Mentoring Partnership, managed by Volunteer USA Foundation, at www.flamentorpartnership.org.

Jeb Bush is former governor of Florida.