LANSING — Rep. Jon Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo) recently introduced House Resolution 212 to recognize January 2020 as National Mentoring Month in the state of Michigan. As part of the month-long celebration of mentorship, Hoadley invited Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kalamazoo CEO Amy Kuchta and Director of Marketing and Recruitment Pagan Poggione to join him on the House floor today to present a special tribute in honor of the organization’s commitment to serving the state’s children.

“Ensuring the health, educational and social well-being of our children is a responsibility that all of us Michiganders must uphold,” said Hoadley. “Through mentoring, we help our young people realize his or her own personal value and potential, instilling within them the hope for a brighter future. By strengthening the next generation through mentoring today, we help them build a stronger tomorrow for themselves, our communities, and our state.”

Numerous studies and local success indicators have shown that children with a caring adult in their lives are significantly more likely to find success and become responsible members of their community. Hoadley hopes that recognizing National Mentoring Month will encourage more Michiganders to step forward as volunteer mentors.