January is designated as National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate and acknowledge the important role that mentors play in our communities, particularly in programs like the Juvenile Mentoring Program in Montgomery County.
Mentoring is vital for shaping the lives of young individuals by providing them with guidance, support, and a trusted friendship. Research shows that young people with mentors are less likely to engage in risky behaviors like drug and alcohol use, emphasizing the significance of these mentoring relationships.
Sara Clapp, JUMP program manager, said that the Youth Service Bureau has had many amazing mentors over the years and Montgomery County youth have benefited from thousands of hours of their time.
Sondi Eden is one of those dedicated and experienced mentors for the JUMP program, where she plays a vital role in shaping the lives of young individuals in her community. Her journey into mentoring began with a profound sense of purpose, as she felt a calling from God to invest in the next generation. Eden understood that many young people faced challenges and could greatly benefit from guidance and encouragement, and she saw JUMP as a wonderful opportunity to provide that support in a fun and engaging environment.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of mentoring for me is the chance to build genuine, lasting connections with my mentees,” Eden said. “It’s truly amazing to watch someone evolve, observing their growing confidence and personal development over time. Being part of their journey as they navigate various challenges and celebrate their victories is incredibly fulfilling. I’ve learned that mentoring isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about simply being there, showing up, and being fully present in the moment. The way to make a lasting impact doesn’t require elaborate plans or extravagant gestures.”
Through her experience, Eden has come to recognize the significant need for mentoring in today’s society, and she believes that investing time in this effort is incredibly worthwhile.
“I’ve seen firsthand how showing up consistently and dedicating time to my mentees can truly make a difference in their lives,” she said. “What’s fascinating is that I’ve discovered that mentoring is just as valuable for my own growth as it is for theirs. This experience has provided me with important lessons in patience, humility, and the vital importance of being present with those I mentor.”
The JUMP program organizes various exciting activities and outings that foster shared experiences and create lasting memories for the mentors and mentees. These outings include trips to engaging locations like Malibu Jack’s, C’ville Lanes and the AMC Movie Theatre. While these experiences are enjoyable, Eden emphasizes that some of the most meaningful moments are often the simplest ones.
“Quality time doesn’t have to involve grand adventures; it’s about being intentional with each interaction and maintaining consistency in our meetings,” she said
Reflecting on her journey, Eden recalls one of her favorite memories as a mentor: attending the year-end banquet.
“This event is always a special night filled with delicious food, fun, and a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how much each of the mentees has grown throughout the year. I love hearing the inspiring stories from fellow mentors, watching the kids smile and laugh together, and witnessing their interactions with one another. It’s heartwarming to see the community that we’ve built.”
For anyone contemplating the idea of mentoring youth in Montgomery County, Eden offers heartfelt encouragement.
“Just do it. There’s never a perfect time to jump in, and you don’t need a specific skill set — what you truly need is a genuine willingness to listen and care. The impact you will have on a young person’s life is profound, and the rewards you will gain from the experience are beyond measure.
“If you find yourself on the fence about becoming a mentor, I urge you to take the leap of faith. Our youth need more mentors who are ready to walk alongside them, celebrate their achievements, and encourage them to aspire for greatness. Trust me, you will not regret this important decision.”
If you or someone you know is looking for a fun way to volunteer in our community we would love to talk with them about becoming a mentor to one of our fantastic local youth. We also have openings available for local youth looking to make lasting memories with a local volunteer mentor.
For more information, contact Clapp at the Montgomery County Youth Service Bureau, 765-362-0694, ext 102, or email Sara@mcysb.org.
More information is also available on the YSB website, www.mcysb.org.
