    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 52 (Monday, January 5, 2009)]
    [Pages 1589-1590]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Proclamation 8333--National Mentoring Month, 2009

     December 30, 2008

     By the President of the United States

     of America

     A Proclamation

        During National Mentoring Month, we recognize the millions of
    individuals who dedicate themselves to making a difference in the lives
    of others, and we underscore our commitment to supporting these soldiers
    in America's armies of compassion.
        Every day across our great Nation, men and women of many different
    backgrounds work to inspire our next generation of leaders. By sharing
    their time and experiences, mentors help instill important values that
    encourage America's youth to set high goals and achieve their dreams.
    Mentors demonstrate that the strength of our Nation lies in the hearts
    and souls of our citizens and that a positive influence in someone's
    life helps them secure a more hopeful future.
        My Administration has been committed to building a culture of
    service, citizenship, and responsibility. Through the Mentoring Children
    of Prisoners program, volunteers help provide consistent guidance and
    support so that these children can lead lives of opportunity and
    achievement. The USA Freedom Corps is strengthening mentoring
    opportunities in America and spreading a message of hope across our
    Nation. The Helping America's Youth initiative, led by First Lady Laura
    Bush, motivates caring adults to connect with youth to help them to grow
    up to be responsible and successful adults. By working together, we can
    enrich the lives of our next generation and continue a legacy of
    kindness and encouragement.
        I appreciate our Nation's mentors and all those who contribute to
    their community by helping to change a child's life. For more
    information on volunteering to be a mentor, visit volunteer.gov. During
    National Mentoring Month, we honor the many Americans who have touched
    the lives of others with their compassion, and we reflect on their
    efforts toward building a stronger and brighter future for all.

    [[Page 1590]]

        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 2009 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 thirtieth day
    of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
    Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
    third.
                                                    George W. Bush

     [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., January 6,
    2009]

    Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on
    January 7.