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Thank Your Mentor Day

It's time to show gratitude for those who have guided and inspired us - join in on Thank Your Mentor Day and honor the mentors in your life!

Thursday

January 2027

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

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 21

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYYouth

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On January 21, we have the perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for those who have guided and supported us throughout our lives – it's Thank Your Mentor Day! This day was established by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in 2010 to honor all mentors who have made a positive impact on others. Whether it's a teacher, coach, family member or friend, mentors play an important role in shaping our personal and professional growth. So take this day as a chance to say thank you and express your gratitude towards those who have helped mold you into the person you are today.

TIMELINE

Thank Your Mentor Day Timeline

Creation of the Harvard Mentoring Project

The Harvard School of Public Health created the Harvard Mentoring Project, focusing on the importance of mentorship in young people's lives.

First National Mentoring Month

Introduced by the Harvard Mentoring Project and MENTOR, January was declared as the National Mentoring Month in the United States.

Inception of "Thank Your Mentor Day"

To recognize the positive impact of mentors, "Thank Your Mentor Day" was introduced as a part of National Mentoring Month.

Enhanced Social Media Involvement

To encourage public participation, "Thank Your Mentor Day" initiates a social media campaign encouraging individuals to share their mentor stories.

Increasing Recognition

"Thank Your Mentor Day" and National Mentoring Month receive proclamations of support from U.S. President Barack Obama.

Virtual Celebrations

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, "Thank Your Mentor Day" observations go virtual, with people sharing their gratitude online.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Thank Your Mentor Day

Write a heartfelt thank you note

Take the time to write a sincere thank you note to your mentor, expressing your gratitude for their guidance and support. This small gesture can go a long way and will surely make your mentor feel appreciated.

TREAT

Treat them to lunch or coffee

Invite your mentor out for a meal or coffee as a way to say thank you. Use this time to catch up and show them how much you value their presence in your life.

SEND

Send them a thoughtful gift

Consider sending your mentor a small gift that reflects their interests or something that you know they will appreciate. This is a great way to show them that you are thinking of them and grateful for their mentorship.

Share their impact on social media

Take to social media and share a post about the positive impact your mentor has had on your life. Tag them and use hashtags such as #ThankYourMentorDay to spread the love and appreciation.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer in their honor

Find a volunteer opportunity that aligns with your mentor's values or interests and dedicate your time in their honor. This is a meaningful and selfless way to show your appreciation for all they have done for you.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Thank Your Mentor Day

It encourages mentorship and paying it forward

Thank Your Mentor Day also serves as a reminder for us to pay it forward and become mentors ourselves. By acknowledging the importance of mentorship, we can inspire others to take on these roles and continue the cycle of knowledge and support in our communities.

Mentors make a difference in our lives

Mentors play a crucial role in shaping us into the people we become. Whether it's in our personal or professional lives, mentors offer guidance, support, and wisdom that can have a profound impact on our growth and development.

This day gives us an opportunity to show gratitude

Thank Your Mentor Day is a chance to express our gratitude and appreciation for all that our mentors do for us. From simple thank you notes to heartfelt conversations, this day allows us to recognize and thank those who have had a positive impact on our lives.