“Executive Council Charities’ investment directly supports the students we serve, many of whom face significant barriers such as poverty, unstable family environments, and limited access to resources,” said Audrey Gallinger, Grants Manager at MentorKids USA. “This grant will help ensure these youth receive the support and tools they need to realize their potential.”

MentorKids USA celebrates a season of faithful leadership and new beginnings. After seven years of dedicated service as Board Chair, Tammy Valdez passes the baton to Diane Erhart, who will lead us into a new era of growth and impact. Join us in thanking Tammy for her servant leadership and welcoming Diane into her new role as we continue building leaders who build leaders.

Water fights, camp stores, splash pads, and butterfly landings—this summer was full of joy. But behind every laugh was something bigger: growth, confidence, and transformation. Watch the newest MentorMoments video, Kids Say the Smartest Things, and hear what students had to say about their favorite moments—and how their lives are being shaped through mentorship.

With this grant, more teens in our Promise Neighborhoods will step into leadership.

“We are incredibly grateful to Thunderbirds Charities for this generous investment in the lives of the youth we serve,” said Aaron Parrott, Executive Director of MentorKids USA. “This funding will allow us to deepen our impact and expand opportunities for students to become confident, capable leaders in their families and communities.”

Celebrate the Class of 2025 from right here in Phoenix! Leave a message of encouragement for our local MentorKids graduates as they step into what’s next.

New Look, Same Mission
We’ve refreshed the iLEAD and iLEAD Launch branding to reflect the bold, transformative leadership our students embody. Take a look at the new design and see how your support continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow.

Delight in the joy of Christmas through the eyes of our MentorKids students! In this touching video, our kids recount the Nativity story in their own words, bringing the story of Jesus' birth to life with heartfelt charm and hand-drawn illustrations. Celebrate the season with this unique retelling that captures the innocence and wonder of Christmas.

"When three mothers described MentorKids in three words, their choices spoke volumes: 'harmony, happiness, love, fun, respect, family, learning.' One mom summed it up perfectly: 'The best program.' Their gratitude reflects the heart of MentorKids—helping children excel academically, grow as leaders, and connect deeply with God."

"The most important work happens in the quiet places of prayer as our leadership and Board seek God's will for this ministry and rely on His Holy Spirit to lead us where He wants us to go next. And when we see His leading in such clear ways as we did in Maryvale this year, we can move forward in the confidence that He is leading and the vision we see is His."

"More than 24.6 million children in the United States cannot join afterschool programs, leaving families to face challenges like cost, availability, transportation, and quality. At MentorKids, we’re breaking down these barriers by offering free, high-quality programs that provide academic support, spiritual growth, and leadership development—helping kids thrive both in school and beyond."

"‘When I was a younger kid, the whole park would be full...’ Edgar’s words reflect his longing to see his neighborhood thrive again. As part of our 25th Anniversary, Edgar, a MentorKids iLEADer, used his leadership skills to bring families together with a BBQ celebration—restoring the community spirit that once filled the Paiute Promise Neighborhood."