    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 51 (Monday, December 24, 2007)]
    [Pages 1615-1616]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Proclamation 8212--National Mentoring Month, 2008

     December 19, 2007

     By the President of the United States

     of America

     A Proclamation

        Millions of Americans lend their time, talent, and energy to become
    mentors and make a difference in children's lives. During National
    Mentoring Month, we honor these caring individuals for their dedication
    to changing our country one heart and soul at a time.
        By sharing their knowledge and experiences, mentors serve as
    examples for young people and help teach them the skills they need to
    succeed in life. They also provide stability, instill important values,
    and build confidence in those they assist. Mentors are soldiers in the
    armies of compassion, and they encourage children to set goals and
    achieve their dreams.
        My Administration is committed to helping our Nation's children
    realize their full potential by expanding opportunities for Americans to
    mentor. To raise awareness of the challenges facing our youth and
    encourage adults to connect with young people through family, school,
    and community, First Lady Laura Bush is leading the Helping America's
    Youth initiative. Through the USA Freedom Corps, we are connecting
    individuals with volunteer opportunities, including mentors who work
    with young people in schools and community organizations. By encouraging
    Americans to mentor, we are doing our part to see that more of America's
    children grow into strong, confident, and successful adults.
        I appreciate all those who reach out to young people and inspire
    future generations to pass on this rich tradition that makes our country
    strong. I urge all Americans to get involved in mentoring programs and
    to visit

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    the USA Freedom Corps website at volunteer.gov to learn more about
    mentoring opportunities in their communities. Together, we can build a
    culture of service and foster a more compassionate society that
    recognizes the value and purpose in every single human life.
         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 2008 as
    National Mentoring Month. I call upon all Americans 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 nineteenth day
    of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    second.
                                                    George W. Bush

     [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., December 21,
    2007]

    Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on
    December 26.