January is National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the relationships that help young people grow with confidence and direction. At Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County, mentorship often takes shape through everyday conversations—intentional moments that build trust, perspective, and connection over time.
At the George Jenkins Memorial Club, staff member and mentor Ms. Makayla sat down with Club member Amelia for an interview designed to help them learn more about each other.
Amelia: What’s something you wish someone had told you when you were my age?
Ms. Makayla: I wish someone had reminded me how important it was to keep my grades up. It would have made certain paths easier later on.
Amelia: What’s one thing you’ve learned from being a mentor?
Ms. Makayla: I’ve learned patience. Everyone grows at a different pace, and it’s important to give people the time they need.
Amelia: How do you stay positive when things get hard?
Ms. Makayla: I just keep going. Even on hard days, moving forward matters.
Amelia: What’s one thing about you that surprises people?
Ms. Makayla: I love baking.
Amelia: What’s something you’re still learning right now?
Ms. Makayla: I’m still learning how important it is to really hear everyone out.
Amelia: What always makes you smile?
Ms. Makayla: My friends.
The conversation then turned to Amelia and her own experience at the Club.
Ms. Makayla: What’s something you’ve learned or gotten better at since coming to the Club?
Amelia: I’ve gotten better at talking to people.
Ms. Makayla: What do you like most about spending time at the Club?
Amelia: I like being able to make new friends.
Ms. Makayla: What’s something you’re proud of yourself for?
Amelia: Trying to make new friends.
Ms. Makayla: What’s one word you’d use to describe yourself right now?
Amelia: Nice.
Ms. Makayla: What’s something you’re really good at?
Amelia: Communication.
Ms. Makayla: What makes you feel confident?
Amelia: Seeing my favorite people.
Mentorship at Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County is built on moments like these; intentional conversations that help young people feel heard, supported, and confident in who they are becoming. Through steady relationships with caring adults, Club members gain more than academic support; they gain encouragement, perspective, and the confidence to speak up.
This month, and every month, we invite you to celebrate the power of mentorship with us. Whether by volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, you can help create lasting change in the lives of Polk County youth. Together, we can ensure every child has the support they need to dream big and achieve even bigger.
Because every great future starts with a great mentor.
About Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County
Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County has proudly delivered enriching after-school and summer programs in Polk County for 85 years. Today, Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County aims to enable all young people, especially those who need them most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible people. With 10 locations across Polk County, Boys & Girls Clubs of Polk County serves over 5,000 youth annually, offering high-quality educational and recreational opportunities. For more information on how you can get involved, go to bgcpolk.org/ways-to-give/ or contact info@bgcpolk.org for all other inquiries.