Skip to content
Announcement Party 5

Nonprofit News

Stay updated on the latest news in Kansas City's nonprofit community.

Does your organization have good news to share? Nonprofit Connect is pleased to share news from our members on our website. Post your recent hiring announcements, fundraising achievements, honors and awards, or other good news. Log in to post your news.

Please post event announcements on our free Community Events Calendar.

Celebrating National Mentoring Month: The Transformative Power of Mentorship

January is National Mentoring Month, a time to celebrate the life-changing impact of mentorship on young people across the nation. Mentoring is a powerful tool for shaping futures, building confidence, and helping the next generation of leaders thrive.

 

Why Mentorship Matters
Research shows that mentorship can be a game-changer for young people. According to data from MENTOR, youth with mentors are:
  • 55% more likely to enroll in college,

  • 78% more likely to volunteer regularly, and

  • 90% more likely to hold leadership roles in their communities.

These statistics highlight the significant, long-term benefits mentorship brings to individuals and communities. By providing guidance, encouragement, and access to resources, mentors empower young people to overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.
 
 
SparkWheel’s Commitment to Mentorship
SparkWheel, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students, is passionate about supporting mentoring initiatives that create positive change. Through direct work inside schools, SparkWheel helps connect youth with mentors who offer invaluable support and encouragement. These relationships provide a foundation for young people to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
 
“As we celebrate National Mentoring Month, we’re reminded of the incredible value mentorship brings to our communities,” said Malissa Martin, President and CEO of SparkWheel. “Mentors provide the support and guidance that many young people need to succeed, and we’re proud to support efforts that foster these impactful relationships.”
 
 
 
Building Relationships That Empower

MENTOR, a leading organization in the youth mentoring movement, emphasizes the importance of building meaningful, relationship-centered connections. Mentorship is not just about giving advice—it’s about listening, understanding, and empowering young people to achieve their dreams. By collaborating with organizations nationwide, MENTOR strives to ensure that every young person has access to high-quality mentoring relationships.
 

During National Mentoring Month, individuals, businesses, and organizations are encouraged to get involved. Whether it’s through volunteering, financial contributions, or spreading the word about the importance of mentorship, everyone has the power to make a difference.

 
 
How You Can Make an Impact

Now is the perfect time to consider becoming a mentor or supporting youth mentoring initiatives in your community. Your involvement can have a lasting impact on the life of a young person, providing them with the tools and confidence to succeed. Visit SparkWheel.org and Mentoring.org to learn how you can help.

Let’s use this month to invest in the future of our youth—one mentoring relationship at a time.