January is National Mentoring Month and, throughout this month, the Virginia Mentoring Partnership will be coordinating programming and awareness efforts to build the visibility of mentoring across the state.  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 young people.

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.

Visit the National Mentoring Month website and download a full toolkit of resources for your organization. The toolkit provides guidance on the most impactful ways you can lend your voice to the mentoring movement!

Materials include:

• Custom graphics for Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram
• Social media language and calendar of campaign activation days
• Template press materials and engagement guides