Mentoring youths

Big Brothers Big Sisters in Cape Girardeau operates an after-school mentoring program at Jefferson, Clippard, Blanchard and Franklin elementary schools and at Central Middle School that serves 150 students. Another 56 students are on a waiting list to get a mentor.

Most of the mentors are high school and college students who spend three to five hours a month playing games with the younger students and helping them with arts and crafts activities. Sometimes they go on group activities like swimming or bowling.

Studies have shown that mentors can make a difference in the lives of children needing more adult supervision simply through their presence. It's someone who shows an interest in their life and can be counted on. The mentors also serve as models of success.

A national study found that children in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program are less likely to begin using illegal drugs and alcohol, less likely to skip school and less likely to become violent.

These volunteers and this program deserve praise.