Former Gov. Jim Hunt got a standing ovation from a crowd of business leaders and educators early this morning as he challenged them to do more for Durham’s children, including mentoring and tutoring.

Hunt was the headliner at the annual State of Durham’s Children breakfast, held at the American Tobacco campus near downtown for $20 a head. This year’s speakers focused on involving businesses to improve education and job preparation.

“We need a lot of volunteers to introduce these children to careers,” Hunt implored. “Let ’em learn what it’s like and get excited about it. Help them understand why it’s important to study... Help them go somewhere.”