ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Reach & Rise is a free mentorship program for youths age 6 to 17 offered through the YMCA. The local YMCA chapter, YMCA of Western North Carolina, is encouraging community members to come onboard as mentors this January, National Mentoring Month.

Reaching, rising, mentoring

In a press release, Melissa Wiedeman, vice president of youth development of the YMCA of WNC, explained the helpful benefits of spotlighting mentorship programs this month.

“National Mentoring Month is a powerful reminder that showing up consistently for young people can change lives,” said Wiedeman in the release.”Through Reach & Rise, we’re creating space for meaningful connections that help youth feel supported, valued and confident as they navigate school, relationships and their future.”

According to data in the release, nearly one in five kids living in the United States grow up experiencing poverty and other life-altering barriers.

“Research consistently shows that having a caring adult mentor can help young people build resilience, improve academic engagement, and develop critical life skills,” the YMCA wrote.

Reach & Rise is produced in collaboration with the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, a national organization dedicated to developing leadership resources for preventing and responding to youth delinquency. The program provides adult mentors with 15 hours of training and ongoing weekly support before embarking on the eight to 16 week sessions with small groups of kids.

“Through shared experiences and relationship-building activities, youth are supported in developing social-emotional skills and a stronger sense of belonging,” the YMCA wrote.

To learn more about Reach & Rise, including an application to become a mentor or to refer a youth, visit www.ymcawnc.org/reach-rise.