Mayor Ravenstahl announced today his first-ever Father's Day message, encouraging young men throughout the region to offer support and guidance to the more than 1,000 youths who are awaiting male role models.

"The most important gift we can give to our City's youths is free: mentorship," Mayor Ravenstahl said. "This Fathers Day, I challenge the men of Americas Most Livable City to brighten the future of a child".

The Mayor is collaborating with the Mentoring Partnership of Southwestern Pennsylvania, who works with more than 150 local mentoring programs to pair youths with mentors. The majority of mentor requests are from citizens seeking a male role model for their son or grandson.

"There are currently more than 25,000 youths being mentored in the region, but more than 1,000 are still on the mentor-waiting list", Mayor Ravenstahl said. "The young people of our neighborhoods are eager to connect with caring adults."

Interested adults are encouraged to apply online today by logging onto the Citys Web site at www.city.pittsburgh.pa.us and clicking the Fathers Day icon. Testimonials from youths and mentors are posted.

Fathers Day is a time to reflect on the roles our fathers have played in our lives, said Colleen Fedor, Mentoring Partnership Executive Director. Unfortunately, there are many young boys who do not have a positive male role model in their lives. This is a perfect time for you to think about how you can share your experiences and love with a child in need.