Calling all mentors!

January is National Mentoring Month

Jan. 29, 2025

Dan Gilbert, founder of Bizdom and chairman of Michigan-based Rocket Companies.

Stacie Zotkovich, a former Mrs. Michigan.

Actors Steven Seagal and Kristen Bell.

Detroit Lions’ players, cheerleaders, staff and legends.

Different backgrounds. Diverse skillsets.

What do these Michiganders have in common?

They either personally mentor others, have charities or belong to organizations that try to up lift people or provide mentorship opportunities.   

As beneficial as mentoring is, though, thousands of children throughout Michigan are on waiting lists with local mentoring programs, according to Mentor Michigan.

The organization strives to raise awareness of the value of mentoring, something Enbridge embraces. 

Mentoring is vital, alive at Enbridge

“Mentorship is a unique opportunity to learn and grow—professionally and personally—for the mentees and mentors,” said Paul Meneghini, Enbridge’s manager of community engagement for Michigan.

“Enbridge applies that philosophy through our formal programs, as well as the support of STEM and STEAM programs throughout Michigan and our overall operating area.”

While effective mentoring has foundational aspects—trust, respect and relationship building—it is unique to the people and the situations, with varying goals.

National Mentoring Month is celebrated throughout January each year. It’s a time for communities to engage in various mentoring-related activities and for individuals to reflect on the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth.

“The month provides opportunity to recognize the contributions of mentors while encouraging others to be mentors,” continued Meneghini.

“To be able to make a positive difference, especially to one of the thousands throughout Michigan seeking a mentor, is especially significant.”

 

“We all need to think mentoring youngsters or people in our community because it’s one way you can make a personal, tangible difference.”

—Paul Meneghini, Enbridge community engagement manager

Ways you can get involved

Here are some ways throughout the year to get involved:

• Become a mentor: In your community or workplace, share your knowledge and skills with someone in need of guidance.
• Support mentorship programs: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations that offer mentoring programs for youth, students or aspiring professionals.
• Educate yourself: Learn about the impact of mentoring on personal development, education, and career success.
• Recognize outstanding mentors: Acknowledge and celebrate outstanding mentors in your life, community or organization.

MENTOR and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health launched National Mentoring Month in 2002.

“I know for me, as someone who has benefited by mentorship in my career, it can make a big difference in your life. Please consider taking some time to mentor in your community,” urged Meneghini.

Learn additional information on mentoring in Michigan.