A good mentor can be a teacher, coach, counselor, or other trusted adult, but finding that person is often up to you.  Many kids are so disconnected from adults and older kids because they have different priorities and schedules.  Sometimes you discover a mentor when you least expect it.  This is because there are many different types of mentors and each has something very different to offer.

An older sibling can relate with you on a personal level.  As a member of the same family, they have experienced some of the same things as you, just a few years before.  They are now able to look back on it and give you some insight.  They can pinpoint where they made mistakes, and where they found success, and pass this knowledge on to you.  But, what happens to those of you without older siblings to help guide you?  Well, that is where a mentor can step in.
 
Having a mentor is all about friendship.  More than anything a mentor is a friend who is older and more experienced with important issues than you are.  A mentor can take you places you might not normally go like theme parks, baseball games, the movies, or restaurants.  While mentors may provide lots of fun experiences for you, the most important thing they do is listen. 
Unlike with your parents, family issues and expectations will not be part of the picture when discussing serious topics with your mentor.   You can focus on problems without having to worry about punishment and disappointment. A mentor can help you make a plan to fix a situation, without criticizing or judging you.
 
Now, many of you may be thinking that you have a pretty good life, and don’t need a mentor.  Well, perhaps you don’t need one as much as other kids, but EVERYONE can benefit from a mentor no matter what your situation might be.