Three students and one adult examine the circumference of a large tree on Lake Lanier.
Master Naturalist Extension Volunteer Winston Davis teaches youth how to measure trees for lumber using a Biltmore stick for Forestry Judging.

Heather Haines, 4-H Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County

In 2015, Mackenzie walked into her 5th grade classroom and learned that 4-H would be visiting to talk about public speaking. She was shy and extremely nervous at the thought of standing in front of her entire class. However, over the next nine years, Mackenzie built lasting relationships with caring adults who guided her through challenges and celebrated her progress. These mentors offered a listening ear, shared encouragement when she stumbled, and applauded her growth as she gained confidence in her voice. Over time, Mackenzie’s self-assurance blossomed, her curiosity deepened, and she began to take the lead in activities she once found intimidating.

Stories like Mackenzie’s show how powerful a caring adult can be in a young person’s life. Research proves it too. Youth with supportive mentors often do better in school, feel more confident, and dream bigger about their future (Raposa et al., 2019). These gains may seem small on paper, but in real life they mean higher grades, stronger self-esteem, and clearer goals.

The emotional impact is even greater. In one study, nearly three out of four young people said their mentor played a big role in their success later in life (Annie E. Casey Foundation, 2019). For youth facing tough challenges, having a mentor more than doubled their chances of stepping into leadership or volunteering in their community.

An elementary student and an adult male archery coach on an archery range. The youth holds a recurve bow, drawn back. The coach evaluates her shooting form.
Certified 4-H Archery Coach Volunteer Kyle Jaacks work with students on the archery team each week to help them hone their skills.

Mentoring also supports mental health. Studies show it can reduce feelings of depression, build self-esteem, and strengthen friendships (MENTOR, 2023). Mentored youth are also less likely to act out and more likely to earn honors in school, make healthy choices, and get involved in leadership and service.

One key factor is consistency. Short or sudden relationships can hurt more than help, but when mentoring lasts at least a year, the benefits are much stronger. Young people in long-term mentoring relationships report better self-worth, stronger family bonds, and even less substance use (Rhodes & Lowe, 2009).

In 4-H, mentoring is built into everything we do. Youth work alongside caring adults through hands-on learning, community projects, and leadership roles. A national study found that 4-H members are nearly four times more likely to give back to their community and twice as likely to be active in civic life compared to their peers (Lerner & Lerner, 2013). They’re also more likely to explore STEM and make healthy choices.

The benefits don’t just stop with youth. Adults who mentor often find the experience rewarding too. Research shows mentors gain self-awareness, creativity, and a sense of purpose (Schwartz et al., 2013). It’s truly a two-way street.

A youth sits at a BB competition, aiming at a target box. His father sits next to him, holding an umbrella to shade him from the sun.
BB Team parents are required to sit on the safety line with their children, providing a unique experience where adults and young people work together during a sporting event.

Communities benefit as well. Programs like Big Brothers Big Sisters have found that mentored youth attend college more often, miss fewer school days, and even earn more money as adults compared to those without mentors (Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, 2025).

So, what makes mentoring work best?

  1. Consistency. Long-term relationships (at least a year) bring the strongest results.
  2. Listening and encouragement. Mentors who meet youth where they are make the biggest difference.
  3. Structure and support. Training and guidance help mentors stick with it.
  4. Opportunities for leadership. Youth thrive when they get real chances to lead and use their voice.

At Forsyth County 4-H, these ingredients come together. Through hands-on experiences, consistent adult guidance, and chances to lead, youth find the support they need to flourish. Adults become not just advisors, but trusted allies who listen, affirm, and help youth navigate both triumphs and challenges.

Today, Mackenzie is in college, working toward her degree in Elementary Education. Her story is just one example of how a young person can flourish when someone believes in them.