Celebrating the Power of Mentorship at the AYCC
- January 31, 2026
- Latest News · News
January is National Mentoring Month, and as we close out the month, the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is proud to celebrate the powerful impact of mentoring in the lives of young people – and the adults who support them.
The AYCC’s mission is “to inspire and enable all young people and their families to realize their full potential as healthy, productive, responsible, and caring citizens.” One of the most meaningful ways we bring this mission to life is through youth mentoring. Positive mentoring relationships support a child’s overall well-being, academic success, and sense of identity while helping them build healthy, trusting relationships that lead to long-term, positive engagement in their community.
The impact of mentoring extends far beyond the youth involved. Mentors themselves often experience meaningful personal growth. According to a national study by MENTOR, 50% of mentors reported a heightened sense of purpose in their lives, and 76% said they would recommend mentoring to friends and family.
At our Waterville location, we are proud to currently support 40 mentees and 35 dedicated mentors who are committed to building ongoing, meaningful relationships with the youth in our After School Program. We are also excited to celebrate a new partnership with the ShineOnCass Foundation through the launch of Shine Together, an off-site youth mentoring program at our Atwood After School Program, located at Atwood Primary School in Oakland.
Shine Together connects afterschool youth with high school mentors who meet weekly with their “littles” to play games, participate in engaging activities, and form strong, supportive bonds. With the guidance of staff and volunteer coordinators, the program launched successfully with 11 new mentor-mentee matches. We look forward to growing Shine Together into an enriching experience that strengthens not only our youth but the community as a whole.
As National Mentoring Month comes to a close, the AYCC extends heartfelt gratitude to every mentor who gives their time, care, and commitment to helping young people thrive. Your impact lasts far beyond January.
Interested in making a difference? Get involved in mentoring today and help shape a brighter future, one relationship at a time.
Learn more about the AYCC’s Mentoring Program. Or contact Heidi Sumner, AYCC Mentor & Volunteer Program Manager
207-873-0684 | hsumner@clubaycc.org