Without good resources, many youths go without the invaluable attention of a mentor. Thankfully, there are many volunteers and organizations dedicated to the improvement of lives. Janet Blair, a Youth Advocate volunteer for The Mental Health Center Serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties, works as a mentor for a young boy. Blair’s job is active and fun as well.

“It’s about inspiring people and communicating well,” Blair said. Every week, Blair and her younger buddy spend 3-4 hours together. As a mentor, Blair often takes her buddy to the library, bookstores, or a variety of sports activities such as football, soccer, and bowling.

“Sharing things I know about sports is a great way to connect to the younger generation as friends,” notes Blair. She cited the desire to prevent isolation in the community as one of the main forces behind her volunteer work. When asked about what she would like to see in the future, Blair said, “we need more volunteers, so we can encourage our youth to be unstoppable.”

For information about volunteering with The Mental Health Center Serving Boulder and Broomfield Counties or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.