A resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National Mentoring Month 2009, with U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-MI-08, as the lead Republican sponsor, passed the House tonight.

January was declared National Mentoring Month by the President. “Mentoring programs across America provide young adults with guidance, support, and encouragement from responsible and caring adults,” said Rogers who introduced H.Res.41 with Rep. Susan Davis, D-CA-53. “Unfortunately, there are still 15 million vulnerable American youths who need an adult mentor in their lives. Our focus is on closing that gap.”

Rogers is co-chair of the Congressional Mentoring Caucus, which has worked to increase mentoring funding at the U.S. Department of Education, create a background check system for youth organizations to protect children, and promote mentoring opportunities.

“In Michigan, we have more than 200 mentoring organizations working every day to help young adults develop confidence, competence and character,” Rogers said. “These volunteers and their work are crucial to help our young people build a healthy, successful future.”

The House resolution recognizes National Mentoring Month and the hard work of mentoring organizations as well as the contributions of the millions of caring adults and students who are already volunteering as mentors. It also encourages more individuals to volunteer as mentors to help prepare young people for school, work and life.