U.S. Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) recently helped lead a bipartisan resolution that would designate January 2024 as National Mentoring Month.

“Having people who care about you, guide you, and hold you accountable will set you up for success, and I am happy to join my colleagues in highlighting the importance of mentors in communities across West Virginia and our country,” Sen. Capito said on Jan. 19.

Senate Resolution (S.Res.) 529, which is sponsored by U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), has 31 other original cosponsors, including U.S. Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Susan Collins (R-ME).

If enacted, the S.Res. 529 would underscore the mentoring gap that exists in the United States, where just one in three young people grow up with a mentor, and would highlight the need for more adults to invest their time in the success of young adults, according to the text.

“Having a mentor gives people, especially children and young adults, a path to reach their goals and unlock their full potential,” said Sen. Capito. “I have had so many great mentors in my life that I am grateful for, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

MENTOR National endorsed the resolution, which has been referred to the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee for consideration.

“Mentors provide wisdom, stability, and guidance to inspire the next generation,” said Sen. Whitehouse. “I am glad to join Sen. Capito in bipartisan recognition of the contributions of mentors in Rhode Island and across America.”