2025 National Mentoring Summit
Published
The 2025 National Mentoring Summit, held January 29 – 31 in Washington DC, brought together leaders, advocates and changemakers dedicated to expanding the power of relationships. The event featured inspiring moments, thought-provoking discussions and impactful strategies to advance mentoring nationwide.
The week unofficially kicked off with Capitol Hill Day, a collective advocacy push where affiliates from across the country met with their individual state reps to elevate the importance of mentoring and galvanize support at the federal level. Key on the list of legislative priorities was asking representatives to consider increasing the Youth Mentoring Grant (the only line-item in the federal budget dedicated to mentoring) to $130million for FY26. The week continued with an energetic, motivational performance by youth from the Baltimore Urban Inspiration Collective, setting the tone for an engaging and powerful gathering. At the Welcome Reception in the Russell Senate Office Building, Senator Dick Durbin was honored with the 2025 National Excellence in Mentoring Award, recognizing his commitment to uplifting young people through mentorship.
Throughout the Summit, impactful sessions and discussions shaped the conversation around mentoring’s role in communities. Acting Director of OJJDP, Eileen M. Garry, delivered reassuring remarks during the Opening Plenary, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in supporting youth. The "Creating a Mentoring City" session highlighted how the City of Alexandria successfully integrated a Mentoring Coordinator into city government, demonstrating a model for sustained mentorship investment at the municipal level.
Participants also explored ways to strengthen collaborations in the "Exploring and Sustaining National Partnerships" session, which encouraged deeper thinking about what it takes to build and maintain high-impact partnerships. Bridge the Gap, LLC from NYC shared actionable strategies on using cultural competency to build strong connections, equipping attendees with the tools to foster deeper engagement.
Mentorship experiences and youth leadership were front and center. Mentor and mentee duo, Barb and Camden, shared their journey in the Linked Mentoring program, which connects LGBTQ+ youth with affirming LGBTQ+ mentors. iCouldBe’s youth interns presented on the formation of a Youth Advisory Board, highlighting how youth voice can shape programming and leadership opportunities.
Closing out the Summit, MENTOR CEO Jermaine Myrie moderated a powerful panel featuring representatives from the U.S. Soccer Foundation, the NBA Foundation, and the Gates Foundation, shedding light on the role of major foundations in supporting mentorship initiatives.
The 2025 National Mentoring Summit was a testament to the collective power of mentorship, bringing together voices from all backgrounds to ensure that every young person has access to meaningful, supportive relationships.
