The Center for Social Justice hosts Empowering the Next Generation: A Panel Discussion on Mentoring Youth on Wednesday, April 9 from 2–3:30 p.m. ET. The event will be held in Building 7 and online. All faculty and staff who are on site that day are encouraged to attend in person. There are opportunities to network with panel members before and after the discussion, and refreshments will be provided.
The mentoring panel brings together experienced leaders from various mentoring programs and offers a unique opportunity to learn about available opportunities, ask questions, and become inspired to make a difference in the lives of young people.
Several panelists are from national organizations, so if you are not located in the Capital Region, plan to attend online to learn more about these organizations and become inspired to seek mentorship opportunities in your community.
Joining us for the panel discussion are:
· Jason Benitez, vice president, diversity, equity and inclusion, Capital Region Chamber of Commerce (moderator)
· Keila dos Santos, CEO, and Enriquette Duran, senior program manager, Big Brothers Big Sisters Capital Region (panelists)
· Abigail Gomes, association director of youth development, Capital District YMCA (panelist)
· John Caher, senior advisor for strategic communications, NYS Unified Court System / U-CAN Mentor Program (panelists)
· Peter Gabak, executive director, and Tamara McCallum, director of programs, 518ElevatED (panelists)
Whether you’re interested in becoming a mentor, looking to expand your existing mentoring activities, or simply want to learn more about the impact of mentoring in our community, this event is for you!
Mentoring has a profound impact on both the mentor and mentee. According to the National Mentoring Partnership, mentored youth are 55% more likely to enroll in college and 46% less likely to start using drugs. According to Mentor, mentors also benefit from the experience, with 71% reporting an improved sense of purpose and 65% feeling more confident in their ability to make a positive impact in their communities and networks.
Join us and be part of empowering the next generation! If you’re planning to attend in person, it’s not necessary to register, but it is appreciated. If you register, you will receive an event reminder and Zoom link should your plans change
Source: Pam Jimenez, Center for Social Justice
