January is National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the many ways caring adults support and guide young people, especially within Expanded Learning programs. In these spaces, mentorship often looks different than the traditional one-to-one model. It shows up through shared experiences, encouragement, and consistent presence, where trusted adults help youth feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Expanded Learning programs are uniquely positioned to connect mentoring with health and wellness. Through movement, play, and teamwork, young people build physical strength, emotional resilience, and confidence, while forming meaningful relationships with adults who model healthy behaviors and positive decision-making. The work we’ve been doing throughout the state through Play Day Activations as part of our Physical Health & Wellness Initiative is an example of how mentorship is put into action.

Interested in learning more about Play Day and how you can get involved? We have an interest form below!

This National Mentoring Month, we recognize and celebrate the many forms mentorship takes and the critical role it plays in supporting whole-child health and well-being.