January is National Mentoring Month—Celebrate the Power of Connection and Why it Matters!
We are thrilled about this growing movement that recognizes the impacts of mentoring. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to highlight the youth we serve and thank the incredible mentors who make our work possible.
Mentoring is more than just a one-time act of kindness. For us, it’s all about relationships and creating meaningful, long-term connections. We are honored to connect youth who have experienced foster care with screened and trained volunteers. Our mentors become trusted role models and friends. These relationships promote growth, resilience and a sense of belonging for young people who deserve it most.
Why Mentoring Matters for Youth from Foster Care
Young people transitioning out of foster care face significant challenges. Statistics* show that within just two years of exiting foster care in California, many experience harsh realities:
- 16% have been incarcerated
- 25% have experienced homelessness
- 40% are unemployed
These statistics paint an unfortunate and sobering picture. However, research** also reveals much hope. Many sciences continue to reveal that a stable and committed relationship with at least one supportive adult is the number one factor in building resiliency and overcoming trauma. Additional research*** recognizes that establishing lifelong connections can have the greatest impact on the overall well-being of youth from foster care. This is how mentoring makes all the difference—through relationships!
Aging UP is a Unique Approach to Mentoring
We serve 13-to-22-year-olds with foster care experience in Sacramento. Youth Today, a national nonprofit and independent news source, has noted that there are “only a handful of groups across the country that focus exclusively on mentoring foster youth.” We are proud to be among this small but impactful group of mentoring programs.
Our research-based services combine one-to-one mentoring, life skills education and positive recreational activities. This unique approach fills a much-needed gap in our community. By providing one-to-one engagement plus peer support, we create a sense of belonging. Mentors extend this by acting as cheerleaders, supporting their mentees as they navigate life’s challenges, and encouraging their successes.
Join Us in Celebrating National Mentoring Month
- Become a mentor: Be someone who impacts a young person’s life
- Support our mission: Donate or spread the word about Aging UP’s work
- Celebrate mentoring: Share stories about how mentors have impacted your life
Let’s make January not just a month of celebration but a movement of empowerment. Together, we can empower youth from foster care to thrive! To learn more or get involved, visit our website.
*Kids Count Data Center - California, FY 2020-2021, **Center on the Developing Child – Harvard University, 2015, ***Improving Family Foster Care - Findings from the Northwest Foster Care Alumni Study (pg. 52)
