[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 130, 114th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9385 of December 31, 2015

National Mentoring Month, 2016

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

At the heart of America's promise is the belief that we all do better
when everyone has a fair shot at reaching for their dreams. Throughout
our Nation's history, Americans of every background have worked to
uphold this ideal, joining together in common purpose to serve as
mentors and lift up our country's youth. During National Mentoring
Month, we honor all those who continuously strive to provide young
people with the resources and support they need and deserve, and we

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recommit to building a society in which all mentors and mentees can
thrive in mutual learning relationships.
By sharing their own stories and offering guidance and advice, mentors
can instill a sense of infinite possibility in the hearts and minds of
their mentees, demonstrating that with hard work and passion, nothing is
beyond their potential. Whether simply offering a compassionate ear or
actively teaching and inspiring curiosity, mentors can play pivotal
roles in young peoples' lives. When given a chance to use their talents
and abilities to engage in their communities and contribute to our
world, our Nation's youth rise to the challenge. They make significant
impacts in their communities and shape a brighter future for coming
generations.
My Administration is committed to fostering opportunities for
mentorship--because when our children have strong, positive role models
to look up to, they grow up to be good neighbors and good fellow
citizens. Through the My Brother's Keeper initiative, we are working
with local governments, businesses, and charitable organizations across
our country to connect more of our youth to effective mentoring programs
and support networks to reinforce the fact that all young people are
valued and to empower them with the skills they need to reach their full
potential. We have achieved the highest high school graduation rate on
record--82 percent--and we remain focused on setting high standards that
will help our students graduate ready for college and careers. In
addition, we are supporting job-driven training initiatives like
apprenticeships so our doers and dreamers can earn and learn at the same
time. And through First Lady Michelle Obama's Reach Higher initiative,
we are working to ensure every student has the opportunity to pursue
their education and life goals.
Every young person can benefit from having a mentor, and all people
carry unique ideas and experiences they can employ as a mentor. I
encourage all Americans to visit www.Serve.gov/Mentor to learn more
about opportunities to make a lasting difference in the lives of our
youth. This month, let us pledge our support for our Nation's young
people, and let us honor those who give of themselves to uplift our next
generation. Working together, we can provide every child with the tools,
guidance, and confidence they need to flourish and succeed.
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 2016 as
National Mentoring Month. I call upon 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 thirty-first day of
December, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
fortieth.
BARACK OBAMA