MENTOR’s 2026 National Mentoring Summit in Washington, D.C. brought together young people, mentors, practitioners, and advocates from across the country who were united by a shared belief that meaningful mentoring relationships change lives.
Over three days of learning, connection, and advocacy, Silver Lining Mentoring was reminded that a shared vision is what sustains our momentum supporting young people impacted by foster care.
As MENTOR CEO Jermaine Myrie shared during the Summit’s opening remarks, “Our task is not to be perfect. Our task is to be present.” That message grounded us in the space and underscored our belief that mentoring has never been more essential.
Stories and the Future of Mentoring
This year’s plenaries invited us to zoom out and lean in. Leaders across the field reflected on how mentoring is evolving, shaped by disruption, strengthened by innovation, and rooted in authentic connection.
Conversations explored how we adapt to emerging challenges, from AI-driven advancements in technology to shifting youth needs, while staying focused on relationship quality and evidence-based practices.
Equally powerful were the personal stories shared on the main stage. From the Excellence in Mentoring Awards to the closing session featuring mentees and program founders, we heard firsthand how consistent, caring adults can open doors to confidence and opportunity for young people.
Advocating on Capitol Hill
Our time in D.C. included participating in Capitol Hill Day, where we met with the offices of Representative Stephen Lynch as well as Senators Ed Markey and Elizabeth Warren to advocate for increased federal investment in mentoring. Alongside partners from across Massachusetts, we emphasized the importance of the Youth Mentoring Grant Program made possible through the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention – the only mentoring-specific line item in the federal budget – and shared how legislation like the Foster Youth Mentoring Act would strengthen support for young people impacted by foster care across the U.S.
Speaking directly with policymakers about the impact of consistent relationships felt both energizing and urgent. Our advocacy efforts were further strengthened by the shared lived experience of SLM staff Liz Barker, who provided reflections on having a mentor and the opportunities and skills that relationship activated in her own life.
Learning With Peers
Beyond advocacy, the Summit offered space to deepen partnerships and learn from mentoring practitioners. A special highlight was connecting with fellow organizations part of the Mass Mentoring Partnership. We discussed wins and challenges across our organizations, reinforcing the support of our local mentoring community.
In one memorable workshop, we heard best practices from NAF’s long-running Alumni Mentorship Program and tips for engaging young adults and volunteer mentors on virtual platforms like in our very own e-mentoring program.
Another standout workshop led by Dr. Jamal Stroud on engaging Gen Z challenged us to apply culturally responsive mentoring. We explored how today’s young people are motivated by purpose and authenticity, and discussed how mentorship is shifting away from top-down models toward shared leadership and youth voice.
One message stayed with us: culture isn’t a barrier to connection; it’s the doorway.
Every generation has a voice. Our job is to help them discover it, not silence it.
Sharing SLM’s Approach
Silver Lining Mentoring was proud to contribute its own best practices during our collaborative workshop with Dallas CASA on long-term mentoring models for young adults transitioning out of the child welfare system. Drawing on our 25 years of exclusively serving young people impacted by foster care, we shared strategies to sustain relationships beyond traditional program timelines and build mentoring frameworks that prioritize longevity. The conversation affirmed what we’ve seen time and again – that enduring relationships have the power to create lasting change for our youth.
Some feedback from workshop participants include:
Today we discovered that we are not alone – SLM has been there and wants to be there with us.
Great morning learning about the work of Silver Lining Mentoring & Dallas CASA and how we can better support the young adults we work with!
Moving Forward Together
We left the Summit grateful for the energy, ideas, and partnerships that continue to strengthen the mentoring movement. The experience closed on a powerful note as we cheered on young performers from Life Pieces To Masterpieces, whose voices and drumming filled the room with positive affirmations. It was a joyful reminder of the insight and leadership young people already carry.
If you’re inspired to get involved, we invite you to mentor a young person impacted by foster care. Mentoring professionals can additionally explore our training and consultation services through the Silver Lining Mentoring Institute.
We’re thankful to MENTOR for convening this annual community and to everyone who connected with and learned alongside us.
