#United States #Los Angeles #Simone Biles #Friends of the Children #Youth Mentoring

Simone Biles Champions Long-Term Mentoring for Youth

January marks a significant month for promising youth as it is observed as National Mentoring Month. This year, the spotlight fell on renowned gymnast Simone Biles, who not only shares her story as a decorated athlete but also as a staunch advocate for children, particularly through her work with the nonprofit organization Friends of the Children.

As the most decorated gymnast in history, Simone Biles has opened her heart to others by emphasizing the impact of caring adults in the lives of at-risk youth. Biles credits her own triumphs to the consistent support she received during her journey, highlighting the role of her parents, coaches, and mentors—crucial figures who shaped her development from a young girl in foster care to a global gymnastics icon.

The Friends of the Children organization works towards fostering mentorship relationships, providing resources, and offering consistent support to children from challenging backgrounds. It stands out in the field due to its dedication to long-term mentorship, often working with youths for multiple years, ensuring they have a guiding figure in their lives. This model is not only life-changing but considered the gold standard of youth mentoring.

Reflecting on her experiences, Biles expressed her wish for every child to have access to a supportive adult. "I think about how I could have greatly benefitted from the support offered by Friends of the Children. I see myself in these children. My hope is that they, too, will eventually be able to pursue their dreams, regardless of their circumstances," she stated during the recent Friends of the Children 30th Anniversary Gala held in Los Angeles.

In a particularly poignant moment, Biles accepted the honor of being named Sports Illustrated's 2024 Sportsperson of the Year. She shared that this recognition goes beyond just her achievements in gymnastics; it also highlights the vital work of initiatives like Friends of the Children. Inspired by her journey, she aims to motivate youth everywhere, proving that dreams are attainable no matter how difficult the road may seem.

As part of National Mentoring Month, Friends of the Children garnered additional recognition through a nationwide advertising campaign. Partnering with media company Billups and over 20 other advertising firms, they rolled out a campaign featuring Friends of the Children across 5,000 billboards in more than 40 cities throughout January. This exposure is invaluable, as it raises awareness about mentoring, encouraging communities to engage in fostering relationships with youths.

Simone Biles believes that while medals like Olympic gold are cherished achievements, the ability to inspire young minds is more profound and fulfilling. She encouraged others to find ways to engage with the community and be that consistent support system. Through her advocacy, she strives to help youths understand that they are not alone in their challenges and that there are caring adults who wish to see them thrive.

In summary, Simone Biles is leveraging her substantial influence to advocate for youth mentorship, highlighting its essential role in nurturing the dreams of young people. By sharing her experiences and supporting organizations like Friends of the Children, she is not just demonstrating a commitment to social good, but also aiming to ignite change in the lives of many. This National Mentoring Month, communities are called to recognize and participate in the vital work of mentoring for the next generation, ensuring that every youth has access to the support they deserve.