January is National Mentoring Month

Launched in 2002 by MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership (MENTOR) and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, National Mentoring Month focuses national attention on the need for mentors, as well as how each of us—individuals, businesses, government agencies, schools, faith communities and nonprofits—can work together to increase the number of mentors to help ensure positive outcomes for our young people. This campaign celebrates mentoring and the positive effect it can have on young lives. Its goals are to:

  • Raise awareness of mentoring in its various forms
  • Recruit individuals to mentor, especially in programs that have waiting lists of young people
  • Promote the rapid growth of mentoring by recruiting organizations to engage their constituents in mentoring

National partners work with local leaders to organize special events in their communities supported by local media outlets and public officials. These events help interested adults learn how to turn their concern for young people into direct action by becoming mentors. Each year since its launch, National Mentoring Month has enjoyed the strong support of the U.S. President and members of Congress. Other well-known supporters include the late Maya Angelou, Clint Eastwood, Senator John McCain, Quincy Jones, General Colin L. Powell, Cal Ripken Jr., Bill Russell and Usher. Learn more about those who have committed to helping improve the lives of America’s young people through mentoring by viewing a collection of video vignettes and short PSAs from the past 15 years of National Mentoring Month. 

Below are a few ways you can take action this January. 

Take action this National Mentoring Month

Spread the Word (+)

You can help unite the mentoring movement! Post on your social media platforms using hashtags #MentorIRL and #MentoringMonth to add your story. When you share your favorite memories, photos and videos with your friends and follower, you help to spread the power of mentoring and inspire new volunteers! 

January 4, 2019 – I Am a Mentor Day
• A day for volunteer mentors to celebrate their role and reflect on the ways mentees have enhanced their world.


January 17, 2019 - International Mentoring Day
• A day of international conversations on social media where photos, video, and powerful mentoring stories messages are shared.


January 21, 2019 – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service
• A day to share in the inspirational words of Dr. MLK, Jr. and elevate the spirit of service through volunteerism.

January 31, 2019 - #ThankYourMentor Day
• This day concludes the #ThankYourMentor campaign! Anyone with real life mentoring experiences can thank those who helped them on their path to adulthood and beyond.