Topeka (WIBW) - Gov. Mark Parkinson took time Friday to encourage Kansans to make time for our state's children.

He declared January as National Mentoring Month.

13's Marques White was among those honored for his work with Big Brothers Big Sisters. Compeer of Topeka, Youth Friends and Kansas Mentors were also recognized.

Also at the governor's office Friday were members of theTopeka Police Department.

The Governor presented a Points of Light award to TPD's Volunteers in Police Service.

The VIPS program recruits citizens who serve in various roles throughout the department including as uniformed patrol unit, chaplains, ambassadors and many other positions.

Last year, participants put in more than 18,000 hours of their time, worth more than $375,000 to the department.