Covering local programs for National Mentorship Month

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - January is National Mentorship Month, and local organizations have been connecting with children for years to help them become their best selves.

Like The Boys and Girls Club of Decatur who's been around for more than 50 years.

"It's very important because of the crime rate that's going up or wherever the crime rate is, we're trying to provide a safe place for the kids to come after school." said Program Coordinator, Vickie Outlaw.

S.I.M.P. Incorporated has reached thousands of students both in Decatur and Chicago.

"We take them on volunteer experiences where every year we've done the "Because We Care" Thanksgiving dinner. They're helping us prepare all of the food, serve the food, clean up. Just to let them understand that there are others that are less fortunate than you but you can make an impact." said Empowerment Leader, Evyonne Hawkins.

In all, their goal is to inspire young children while encouraging them to give back to their communities.

"They all have the ability to be leaders. That's what we want them to do is to realize that there are other alternatives to violence in the streets, that they can become leaders, and that they can also help others to become leaders." said Hawkins.

S.I.M.P. is hosting their Winter Wonder Fest on Friday, January 26 at the Decatur Conference Center.

For more information, click here.