Brownwood Mayor Stephen Haynes proclaimed the month of January National Mentoring Month at Tuesday’s City Council Meeting.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Brown County Executive Director Gina Jameson accepted the proclamation along with volunteer and mentor Jodie Armstrong.

The proclamation states that mentoring is a proven, effective strategy that helps children and young adults by matching them with a caring, responsible adult who can provide guidance and direction and build their confidence.  It further explained that mentors build character, encourage success, boost confidence, lift expectations, and inspire young people to do their best, serving as friends, role models, teachers, and sources of stability and support during a critical time in a child’s life.  Mentoring strengthens the community’s economic and social well-being by helping young people fulfill their potential while helping maintain healthy families and promoting more vibrant communities, according to the proclamation.

Jameson explained that Brown County has many success stories through the local BBBS program.

“Mentoring makes a difference, we have proven outcomes.  We appreciate your support and the city’s recognition of National Mentoring Month,” said Jameson.

A similar proclamation was read during Brown County Commissioner’s Court on Monday, January 6th.

Currently, there are approximately 40 children in the program which can serve twice that many, according to Jameson.  She stated that the main challenge for Big Brothers Big Sisters is securing volunteers to commit to a year of mentoring a child.  Those interested in making a difference in a child’s life through the mentoring program can contact Jameson at (325) 643-5600 or visit bbbstx.org.

Pictured above, left to right, are BBBS Executive Director Gina Jameson, BBBS volunteer Jodie Armstrong and Brownwood Mayor Stephen Haynes at Tuesday’s proclamation.