Mentoring is a structured one-on-one relationship between an adult and youth that focuses on the needs of the youth, providing him or her with support, guidance, and assistance. This information capsule summarizes research findings on the impact of mentoring on factors such as academic achievement, social behaviors, attitudes, drug and alcohol use, and self-perceptions. Characteristics of effective mentoring relationships are reviewed and a summary of mentoring programs operating within Miami-Dade County Public Schools is also included.