What happens when we get a group of Silver Lining mentors together in one place? We have a celebration to remember, filled with amazing energy, new connections, and inspiring stories. On October 15, we held our annual Mentor Appreciation Night to thank all our community of dedicated volunteer mentors whose fierce commitment to young people in foster care is the lifeblood of SLM’s work.

As our volunteer manager, Alex Parkes, shared, “Right now, showing up for our young people feels more important than ever. Mentoring continues to serve as the ultimate bulwark for ensuring young people impacted by the foster care system feel safe, supported, and loved. Although turning inward during difficult times may have been the path of least resistance, our mentors have chosen action versus inaction.”

Our mentors embody consistency and care, showing up for young people because they believe everyone deserves someone in their corner. During the event, several mentors shared powerful reflections about their mentoring experience:

Mentoring to me is about presence, not perfection. It’s all about just showing up. My mentee doesn’t expect me to be perfect. I’m learning at the same time she is, and so we’re just learning together, and it’s all about just being there for each other.
SLM Mentor Jamie at Mentor Appreciation Night 2025Jamie, SLM Mentor

My advice to new mentors would be to just come in with no expectations. Come in open to hearing what your mentee is interested in, and understand that this is a journey for both of you.

SLM Mentor Matt at Mentor Appreciation NightMatt, SLM Mentor

To all our mentors: your unwavering commitment makes our mission possible. Your generosity and compassion bring hope and stability to the young people we serve. Thank you for being an essential part of the Silver Lining Mentoring community.

Interested in learning more about mentoring a young person in foster care? Check out the Become a Mentor page and explore options for attending an upcoming volunteer info session.

Photos from Mentor Appreciation Night
Mentor Appreciation Night by Silver Lining Mentoring
SLM Staff at Mentor Appreciation Night
SLM Staff Alex Parkes (He/Him) at Mentor Appreciation Night
Colby Swettberg, CEO SLM, celebrated the countless ways our mentors support young people and the extraordinary impact they make.
This says it all. Our work is centered on ensuring every young person has the support and community they deserve.
SLM Mentor Sonia
Special thanks to our longtime corporate supporter, Wistia,
for hosting us at their incredible office space.
Silver Lining Mentoring is in gratitude to Wisitia for providing their amazing cambridge office space for Mentor Appreciation Night