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I Am a Mentor Day

Show your support for I Am a Mentor Day by inspiring and encouraging others to become mentors and make a lasting impact in their community!

Thursday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 7

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYYouth

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate I Am a Mentor Day on January 7th by showing your appreciation for all the mentors in your life! This day was created to honor and recognize those who have acted as a mentor, whether formally or informally, for others. It's a day to thank and recognize these special people for their guidance, support, and friendship. Whether you are looking for someone to help you reach your goals, or just need some advice on how to make it through tough times, having a mentor can be invaluable. So take this opportunity to thank your mentors and show them just how much they mean to you!

TIMELINE

I Am a Mentor Day Timeline

Big Brothers Big Sisters Founded

Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, known to be one of the earliest and prominent mentoring organizations, was founded, promoting the concept of youth mentorship.

Increase in Mentoring Programs

Due to noticed benefits, the 1970s show a boom in the creation of structured mentoring programs in the United States.

MENTOR Established

MENTOR: The National Mentoring Partnership was established, a non-profit organization looking to expand quality mentoring relationships in the United States.

First National Mentoring Month

January was proclaimed for the first time as National Mentoring Month to highlight the importance and impact of mentorship.

I Am a Mentor Day Created

"I Am a Mentor Day" is celebrated for the first time during the National Mentoring Month on January 7, an opportunity to celebrate and share stories of mentorship.

Mentorship Recognition Growth

"I Am a Mentor Day" continues to thrive, focusing attention on the need for mentors, and how individuals can work together to increase the number of mentors and brighten the future for young people.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate I Am a Mentor Day

Organize a Mentoring Event

Gather a group of mentors together to share their experiences and knowledge. This could be in the form of an organized panel discussion or an informal gathering.

WRITE

Write a Blog Post

Write a blog post about the importance of mentorship and share it with your network. Make sure to include stories, tips, and advice for those who are interested in becoming mentors.

HOST

Host a Mentoring Symposium

Invite experienced and new mentors to a symposium where they can learn from each other. Make sure to provide plenty of activities and discussion topics to keep everyone engaged.

Share Your Inspiring Story

Share your inspiring story about how you became a mentor and what it has meant to you. Encourage others to become mentors and make a difference in their communities.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer as a Mentor

Take the time to volunteer as a mentor. Find a mentoring program in your area and contact them. You can make a lasting impact on someone’s life by becoming their mentor.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why I Am a Mentor Day is Important

Mentoring builds confidence and resilience

When someone is able to talk openly with an adult who they trust and look up to, it can boost their self-esteem and help them develop into responsible adults. Through mentorship, young people can learn how to make sound decisions, solve problems creatively and take control of their own lives.

Mentoring helps to encourage learning and personal growth

By acting as a mentor, you can encourage someone else to explore their passions, develop new skills and reach for their goals. Studies have shown that when young people are supported by mentors, they are more likely to engage in positive behaviors, stay in school and find success in life.

Mentoring enhances relationships within a community

By taking on the role of a mentor, you are helping to build stronger, healthier communities by fostering meaningful connections between adults and youth. Having an adult in their life who cares about them can be incredibly beneficial for young people - it can inspire them to reach for greatness and provide stability and guidance during tough times.