DUNCAN, OK — National Mentoring Month is a time to celebrate the invaluable role mentors play in shaping the future of our community. This month, we recognize the dedicated mentors who make a difference and encourage everyone to consider the powerful impact they can have by becoming a mentor themselves.
Mentoring is a proven way to empower and inspire young people to reach their full potential. From guiding children and teens through life’s challenges to helping them set and achieve their goals, mentors provide essential support, encouragement, and perspective. Whether you’re mentoring a child in your family, a student at school, or a young person in your neighborhood, your influence can make a lasting difference.
SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign offers lots of resources to help parents, educators, caregivers, and community members engage in meaningful conversations with youth. Designed to address critical topics like substance misuse, these tools make it easier to start open and honest discussions. By using these resources, mentors can foster trust and understanding while helping to guide young people away from risky behaviors.
Mentors not only support the growth and development of the youth they guide but also experience personal growth themselves. Studies show that mentoring improves communication skills, strengthens community ties, and increases a sense of purpose.
“Our community has a lot of amazing mentors who dedicate their time and energy to support the youth. National Mentoring Month is an opportunity to celebrate their contributions and inspire others to step into this rewarding role,” said Gina Olheiser, CBPS with Wichita Mountains Prevention Network.
This January let’s celebrate the mentors who make a difference and encourage everyone to join the movement. Explore resources from SAMHSA’s “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign to learn how you can start conversations with the youth in your life.
For more information about talking to the youth in your life or mentoring opportunities in our area, email Gina Olheiser at golheiser@wmpn.org and visit https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/prevention/talk-they-hear-you

Wichita Mountains Prevention Network (WMPN) is a nonprofit dedicated to creating safe communities through promoting proven substance abuse prevention strategies among teens and adults.