    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8619--DEC. 21, 2010

    Proclamation 8619 of December 21, 2010
    National Mentoring Month, 2011
    By the President of the United States of America
    A Proclamation

    Across our Nation, mentors steer our youth through challenging times and
    support their journey into adulthood. During National Mentoring Month,
    we honor these important individuals who unlock the potential and
    nurture the talent of our country, and we encourage more Americans to
    reach out and mentor young people in their community.
    The dedication of mentors has helped countless young men and women
    succeed when they might have otherwise fallen short of their full
    potential. Mentors can provide a steady presence and share their
    valuable knowledge and experiences. Even brief amounts of quality time
    set aside by these compassionate adults can have a lasting impact on the
    development of a child. Mentors can also support the lessons of parents
    and teachers by encouraging students to complete their schoolwork and by
    instilling enduring values of commitment and persistence. From coaches
    to community leaders, tutors to trusted friends, mentors are working
    with today's youth to develop tomorrow's leaders.
    We know the difference that a responsible, caring adult can make in a
    child's life. Effective mentoring programs can result in better school
    attendance, positive student attitudes, and a reduced likelihood of
    initiating drug and alcohol use. Across the Federal Government, we have
    provided resources to expand mentoring opportunities for America's young
    people. We are increasing mentoring efforts in Native American and rural
    communities and are working to ensure our investments are coordinated,
    effective, and focused on those most in need. To help build healthy
    families and communities and provide our youth with strong role-models,
    I launched the President's Fatherhood and Mentoring Initiative. First
    Lady Michelle Obama and I have also established mentoring programs
    within the White House, pairing staff with young men and women in the
    Washington, D.C., area. For information and resources about mentoring
    opportunities, I encourage all Americans to visit: www.Serve.gov/Mentor.
    Many Americans have realized their promise because a mentor encouraged
    them to reach for new heights and guided them along the path to
    achievement. The contributions of these engaged adults extend beyond the
    lives they touch and have a lasting impact that strengthens our country
    and our future.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
    America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
    the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 2011 as
    National Mentoring Month. I call upon all public officials, business and
    community leaders, educators, and Americans across the country to
    observe this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and
    programs.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of
    December, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the

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    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    fifth.
    BARACK OBAMA