[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 42, Number 52 (Monday, January 1, 2007)]
[Pages 2208-2209]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8092--National Mentoring Month, 2007

 December 22, 2006

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During National Mentoring Month, we honor the caring individuals 
across our Nation who are committed to helping the next generation of 
Americans reach their full potential.
    Mentors help teach important skills that are necessary for a 
healthy, successful life and help shape the character of our young 
people. They instill compassion and responsibility in our children and 
help motivate them to do their best in school. By providing leadership 
and guidance, mentors can inspire young people to set high goals and 
help them achieve a bright future.
    My Administration is committed to helping the next generation 
realize the promise of our Nation. Through the USA Freedom Corps, we are 
providing opportunities for mentors to connect with children in schools, 
after-school programs, and community groups. The Helping America's Youth 
initiative, led by First Lady Laura Bush, raises awareness about the 
challenges facing our youth and encourages adults to connect with youth 
in three key areas: family, school, and community. The initiative also 
supports community partnerships that develop opportunities for mentoring 
and positive youth development.
    I appreciate the contributions of all those who serve as mentors, 
and I encourage all Americans to get involved in mentoring programs. To 
learn about mentoring opportunities, citizens can visit the USA Freedom 
Corps website at volunteer.gov. By joining teachers, coaches, religious 
leaders, relatives, and other mentors, individuals can use their

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talents and experiences to enrich the lives of young people and 
demonstrate the compassionate spirit of America.
     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim January 2007 as 
National Mentoring Month. I call upon the people of the United States to 
recognize the importance of mentoring, to look for opportunities to 
serve as mentors in their communities, and to observe this month with 
appropriate activities and programs.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second 
day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:49 a.m., December 28, 
2006]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on December 27, and it was published in the Federal Register 
on December 29.