Mentor, accoding to the American Heritage Dictionary, means " a wise and trusted counselor or teacher" and has Greek root meaning of "steadfast and enduring." The Greek poet Homer first coined the word "mentor" in his epic poem, The Odyssey. A great warrior, Odysseus, knowing he was to be away from his home for many years on a journey, chose a man named Mentor to be the guardian and tutor of his son. The Youth ChalleNGe Mentor is to inspire the Cadet to think, act and develop his/her potential through praise, motivation, correction and listening. The mentor encourages the Cadet to utilize his/her personal strengths, to accept challenges and pursue dreams.