Columbia, S.C. — South Carolina proudly joins the nation in celebrating National Mentoring Month this January 2026, honoring the mentors and mentoring organizations across the state who are helping young people thrive. This annual observance highlights the critical role mentoring plays in fostering positive youth development, strengthening communities, and shaping a brighter future for South Carolina.
Decades of research show that young people with mentors are more likely to stay in school, build healthy relationships, engage in their communities, and pursue postsecondary education and career opportunities. As South Carolina continues to invest in the well-being and success of its youth, mentoring remains one of the most effective and accessible strategies to support their growth.
“It is hard for young people to be something or someone they have never seen. Mentoring is a necessary investment in the future generations and wellbeing of all people. I’m proud to be a mentor and recognize all mentors doing this valuable and necessary work,” said Jermaine Johnson, Representative for South Carolina House District 52.
“Mentoring serves as a lifeline between what is and what can be. I am who I am because of mentors who poured into me while correcting me. South Carolina is better when we pour and replenish,” said Hamilton Grant, Representative for South Carolina House District 79.
“Our young people need mentors now more than ever. I appreciate the work of the organizations involved in this effort in providing positive role models for our youth,” said Robby Robbins, Representative for South Carolina House District 97.
“I’ve seen firsthand the benefits of a child having a mentor and the consequences of youth not having positive role models to look to for guidance and support. I not only support this effort but also look forward to supporting legislation to expand programs like these in the future. Effective mentorship programs are essential to helping our youth realize their potential,” said Deon Tedder, South Carolina State Senator.
SC Mentors Advocacy Day at the Statehouse
As part of National Mentoring Month, the South Carolina Mentoring Network will host SC Mentors Advocacy Day on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the South Carolina Statehouse.
Now in its second consecutive year, SC Mentors Advocacy Day brings together mentoring organizations, youth advocates, community leaders, and policymakers from across the state to:
● Elevate the impact of mentoring on youth outcomes
● Strengthen relationships between mentoring organizations and legislators
● Advocate for policies and investments that support youth development
● Amplify the voices of mentors and the young people they serve
Mentoring organizations across South Carolina are invited to participate and stand together in support of mentorship as a critical strategy for strengthening families, communities, and the state as a whole.
Join Us at the Statehouse: Click here to register