National Mentoring Month

National Mentoring Month: Local, Regional & Digital Mentoring Resources

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to recognize the powerful impact mentoring relationships have on youth, adults, and communities. At the Fulton County YMCA, mentoring aligns closely with our mission to strengthen youth development, build confidence, and foster meaningful connections that support lifelong growth.

Mentors may be coaches, teachers, family members, neighbors, or trusted adults who provide guidance, encouragement, and consistency. Whether you are interested in becoming a mentor, supporting a young person, or exploring resources for yourself or your family, the following local, regional, and digital resources offer valuable tools and support.

Local & Regional Mentoring and Youth Support Resources

These organizations serve Fulton County, Montgomery County, and the greater Capital Region, providing mentoring, youth development, and family-centered services.

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters (Capital Region)
    One-to-one mentoring programs that support youth through consistent, positive adult relationships.
    https://www.bbbscr.org

  • Boys & Girls Clubs of Schenectady
    Offers mentoring, academic support, leadership development, and safe after-school programming for youth.
    https://www.bgcschenectady.org

  • Catholic Charities of Fulton & Montgomery Counties
    Youth mentoring, family services, and community support programs.
    https://www.ccfmc.org

  • Fulmont Community Action Agency
    Education support, youth development programs, and family assistance services throughout the region.
    https://www.fulmont.org

  • Mental Health Association in Fulton & Montgomery Counties
    Programs focused on emotional wellness, peer support, and youth resilience.
    https://mhafmc.org

  • Fulton County Office for Aging & Youth Bureau
    Community-based programs supporting youth development, mentoring, and intergenerational connections.
    https://www.fultoncountyny.gov

National Mentoring Month Resources from MENTOR

MENTOR (National Mentoring Partnership) is the nation’s leading organization dedicated to expanding access to high-quality mentoring relationships. Their National Mentoring Month resources provide research-based guidance for mentors, families, educators, and community members.

Featured MENTOR Resources

  • National Mentoring Month Toolkit
    A comprehensive toolkit with activities, conversation guides, and ideas to promote mentoring throughout January and beyond.
    https://www.mentoring.org/national-mentoring-month

  • Becoming a Mentor
    Step-by-step guidance on how to get involved and build meaningful mentoring relationships.
    https://www.mentoring.org/become-a-mentor

  • Mentor Training & Best Practices
    Evidence-based tools focused on building safe, effective, and supportive mentoring relationships.
    https://www.mentoring.org/resources

MENTOR highlights that strong mentoring relationships help young people develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging, while also providing mentors with purpose, connection, and community engagement.

Additional Online Resources for Youth & Families

  • My Brother’s Keeper Alliance
    Leadership and mentoring initiatives supporting education and opportunity.
    https://www.obama.org/mbka

  • TeensHealth (Nemours)
    Trusted information for teens on mental health, relationships, and life skills.
    https://teenshealth.org

  • Youth.gov
    Federal youth development resources, including mentoring and leadership programs.
    https://youth.gov

Supporting Mentorship at the YMCA

The Fulton County YMCA is committed to creating welcoming environments where positive relationships and mentorship can thrive. Through youth programs, teen initiatives, and community partnerships, the Y supports opportunities for connection, leadership, and personal growth for all ages.

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