Dear Henrico Business Leaders,

Daily, the number of school age children who are without the direct supervision of responsible adults after school is growing to alarming proportions. In the absence of such supervision, children are empowered to make choices and decisions that have significant impacts on their growth and development.

While some students are able to make positive choices, many of their peers do not demonstrate the same capacity and are subject to conditions and situations that stagnate their success and has the potential to significantly impact them later in life.

In the Henrico Citizen's Feb. 4-17, 2010 issue, we are proud to introduce our “Mentoring Matters” initiative, which is designed to encourage individuals, businesses and organizations to spend at least one hour a month mentoring a student in the county.

Below, we have provided information to help you get involved. We hope you’ll Join the Henrico Citizen in making an impact in the lives of Henrico County students!

About This Initiative
The Henrico Citizen is committed to serving Henrico County. We believe there is no better way to ensure that our county remains strong and vibrant in the future than to invest in the success of our students in the present.

In this issue, we are establishing a countywide effort to encourage businesses, organizations and individuals to take an active role in the future of Henrico County by mentoring students. All students, regardless of age, race, economic background or educational aptitude, can benefit from the advice, guidance and support of an adult mentor. Each of us has talents, advice, abilities and life lessons to share with youngsters.