Youth Risk Behavior in Mississippi

Young people today face immense pressures. According to the CDC’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, Mississippi high school students reported alarming struggles:

41.8% felt hopeless or sad for extended periods.
21.9% currently drink alcohol; 9.7% engage in binge drinking.
21.6% use tobacco or vaping products.
21.6% considered suicide in the last year; 16.2% attempted suicide.

These statistics are more than numbers—they represent real lives at risk. That’s why mentorship is critical. When young people have strong, faith-driven mentors, they are more likely to develop resilience, make positive choices, and build a strong foundation for their future.

How Unite Mississippi is
Making a Difference

We are actively working in schools and communities to:

Connect young people with faith-based mentors who provide guidance and support.
Equip youth with spiritual and leadership opportunities to navigate social pressures.
Provide resources to address mental health struggles, substance abuse, and self-worth issues.
Support faith-driven programs that teach life skills, character development, and biblical values.

Be a Part of the Solution

You can make a lasting impact in a young person’s life. Here’s how:

Become a Mentor – If you feel called to guide and inspire youth, we’d love to help you get involved.
Donate – Your financial support helps us expand mentorship programs across Mississippi.
Spread the Word – Share our mission with your church, community, or social network.

Why Mentorship Matters

What is
Mentorship?

Mentorship is more than just offering advice - it’s about walking alongside someone, helping them grow spiritually and personally. Through faith-based mentorship programs, we provide young people with strong role models who encourage their spiritual growth, character development, and resilience.

With your support, Unite Mississippi funds mentorship programs in schools and communities across the state. Your donations help us partner with faith-based organizations that use the gospel to mentor young people, offering them hope and guidance in a world filled with challenges.

At Unite Mississippi, we believe mentorship is a powerful way to guide young people toward faith, purpose, and a brighter future.

Current Unite Mississippi Mentorship Programs

Chris Gillard mentors at the following schools and focuses on confidence building, positive speech, conflict resolution, positive choices, importance of relationship with Jesus Christ, positive reinforcement, and encouragement.

Capital City Alternative School
Clinton Alternative School
Casey Elementary School
John Hopkins Elementary School

Youth Risk Behavior in Mississippi Young people today face immense pressures. According to the CDC’s 2021 Youth Risk Behavior Survey, Mississippi high school students reported alarming struggles:

41.8% felt hopeless or sad for extended periods.

21.9% currently drink alcohol; 9.7% engage in binge drinking.

21.6% use tobacco or vaping products.

21.6% considered suicide in the last year; 16.2% attempted suicide.

These statistics are more than numbers—they represent real lives at risk. That’s why mentorship is critical. When young people have strong, faith-driven mentors, they are more likely to develop resilience, make positive choices, and build a strong foundation for their future.

How Unite Mississippi is Making a Difference We are actively working in schools and communities to:

Connect young people with faith-based mentors who provide guidance and support.

Equip youth with spiritual and leadership opportunities to navigate social pressures.

Provide resources to address mental health struggles, substance abuse, and self-worth issues.

Support faith-driven programs that teach life skills, character development, and biblical values.

Be a Part of the Solution You can make a lasting impact in a young person’s life. Here’s how:

Become a Mentor – If you feel called to guide and inspire youth, we’d love to help you get involved.

Donate – Your financial support helps us expand mentorship programs across Mississippi.