[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.