Tech Impact Looks to Engage and Recognize Mentors Throughout January
In celebration of National Mentoring Month, Tech Impact wants to call attention to the importance of mentoring and recognize those who have demonstrated a strong commitment to providing guidance and support to those students in the CXWorks and ITWorks workforce development programs. This article will discuss why mentorship is an integral component of our programs, and include some highlights from our mentors. Keep an eye on our social media pages for daily mentor highlights during the month of January!
“Volunteers are an essential component to the success of our organization. Not only do volunteers augment gaps in resources, but they unequivocally enrich the experience for the youth we serve through our programs. This is especially true with volunteers that act in the capacity of mentors. We would be unable to replicate their experience and level of personal care that they bring directly to the individuals in our programs. They help to build our community and make our organization stronger,” Patrick Callihan, Executive Director of Tech Impact, stated upon being asked about the role of mentors in their workforce development programs.
Tech Impact has been engaging mentors in communities served through its programs, CXWorks and ITWorks, for over five years. Every student that is accepted into one of the career training programs is paired with their own individual mentor who can provide support as they acclimate to a new industry, cheer their mentee on as they earn an internship and pass exams, give advice on possible career paths, and help navigate the challenges of this world by sharing their own stories. Since 2011, there have been over 300 graduates of Tech Impact’s programs, which translates into more than 300 mentor relationships that have been built. The need for mentors is always on the forefront of volunteer recruitment, and will remain a fundamental component of the CXWorks and ITWorks programs.
Research shows that mentors can play a powerful role in providing young people with the tools to make responsible choices, attend and engage in educational opportunities, and gain self-confidence. In turn, these same young people are:
- 55% more likely to be enrolled in post-secondary education
- 81% more likely to report participating regularly in extracurricular activities
- 78% more likely to volunteer in their communities
- More than twice as likely to hold a leadership position
Yet, the same research shows that many will not have the opportunity to be mentored. Each Spring and Fall, Tech Impact enrolls over 50 students who could benefit from having a mentor. These motivated, young adults are ready to make their career aspirations into a reality – and they need your help!
National Mentoring Month each January allows for unique engagement from community members interested in becoming a mentor. This year, with the support of the mentoring community, we are encouraging the public to go beyond just digital engagement – and become involved in making a real-life impact.
Are you ready to mentor an ITWorks or CXWorks student?
And check out our social media pages to hear about the experiences of real Tech Impact mentors!
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