National Mentoring Month: Empowering Future Generations Through Guidance
Roasted Veggie Bowls
Each January marks National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize the profound impact mentors have on young lives and encourage more individuals to become mentors. Established in 2002 by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, this observance has grown into a nationwide movement celebrating the power of supportive relationships. The Origins of National Mentoring Month The initiative began when researchers and youth advocates recognized the crucial role mentoring plays in young people’s development. Studies consistently showed that mentored youth are more likely to excel academically, pursue higher education, and develop stronger leadership skills. Former President George W. Bush officially endorsed the observance, and subsequent administrations have continued to support this important initiative. Ways to Get Engaged There are numerous ways to participate in National Mentoring Month: Become a Mentor: Connect with local mentoring organizations or schools to find opportunities that match your skills and availability. Whether through formal programs or informal relationships, your experience and guidance can make a lasting difference. Support Mentoring Organizations: If you can’t commit to being a mentor, consider supporting mentoring programs through donations, volunteering, or raising awareness on social media.
Share Your Story: If you’ve been influenced by a mentor or have mentoring experience, share your story to inspire others. Personal testimonials can encourage both potential mentors and mentees to get involved. Participate in Workplace Mentoring: Initiate or join mentoring programs at your workplace to foster professional development and create a supportive organizational culture. The Impact of Mentoring Research shows that mentoring relationships can: • Improve academic performance and reduce dropout rates • Increase self-confidence and decision-making skills • Expand career opportunities and professional networks
If, like me, you are cleansing this month after too much indulgence over the holidays, try this healthy recipe. These vegan Roasted Veggie Bowls feature cauliflower, carrots, protein-rich quinoa, and a dynamite tahini dressing. Nutrient-packed and perfect for meal prep.
INGREDIENTS • 1 medium head cauliflower, cut into
• 1/4 cup roasted pumpkin seeds • 1 ripe avocado, sliced • Chopped fresh parsley. for garnish Golden Tahini Dressing • 1/4 cup tahini, well-stirred • 1 tbsp sherry vinegar (can substitute apple cider vinegar) • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 2 tsp chili garlic sauce • 1/2 tsp curry powder • 1/4 tsp ground turmeric • 1/4 tsp kosher salt • 3–4 tbsp water
florets (about 6 cups total)
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced at a diagonal into 1-inch chunks • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • 1 tsp smoked paprika • 1 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp ground cumin • 1/2 tsp kosher salt • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 1 cup quinoa, uncooked • 2 cups vegetable broth • 4 packed cups chopped fresh kale
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Develop leadership abilities and social skills Reduce risk-taking behaviors and promote positive choices
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. Add cauliflower florets and carrots to a large rimmed baking sheet. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper; toss well to coat. 2. Roast for 25–30 minutes, tossing once halfway through, until crisp and caramelized. 3. Meanwhile, combine quinoa and broth in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and gently simmer for 15 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy. 4. Remove lid and stir in kale and remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Cover and keep warm until ready to serve. (The residual heat will soften the kale.) 5. For the tahini dressing, in a medium bowl combine tahini, vinegar, maple syrup, chili garlic sauce, curry powder, turmeric, and salt; stir well. Gradually whisk in water in 1 tbsp increments until sauce is smooth. (I typically use 3–4 tbsp, depending on how runny the tahini is.) 6. Assemble bowls by dividing quinoa mixture evenly between four bowls. Scatter roasted veggies over top, then add avocado slices. Drizzle with tahini dressing and sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top. Finish by garnishing each bowl with parsley if desired.
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Looking Forward Consider how you can contribute to this important movement. Whether by becoming a mentor, supporting mentoring programs, or simply expressing gratitude to those who have mentored you, every action helps strengthen the mentoring movement and creates positive change in communities across the nation. Remember, mentoring isn’t just about sharing knowledge — it’s about building relationships that can transform lives and strengthen communities. This January, take the opportunity to get involved and make a difference through mentoring.
3 Rinehardt Law | BeSmartLegal.com
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