MentorKids Stories & Updates
Press releases, MentorMoments, announcements, reflections, and real-life updates from across our Promise Neighborhoods.
The Survey Says: Afterschool programs are crucial to a child’s education
"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…”
"‘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."
I will love him forever
"Service turns into love. Peter and Jorge’s story began as a simple mentorship but grew into a deep bond that transcended age, culture, and background. As MentorKids celebrates 25 years, we reflect on our true calling: to move from service to love, uniting and transforming communities through God’s hope and grace."
The vision blossoms in Maryvale
Our vision for a Promise Neighborhood in Maryvale began in faith, endured challenges, and blossomed into reality. From refining our 'MentorKids in a Box' model to a divine connection with Unidos en una Visión Church, God’s hand has guided every step. The smiles of the children at our Maryvale Summer Enrichment Camp remind us: every valley leads to a mountaintop.
The seed of a vision begins to sprout…
"When asked if we’d open a Promise Neighborhood in Maryvale, I gave my usual response: 'Sure, if we had the right partner, location, staff, and funding.' Little did I know that within four months, we’d launch a summer program for 50 children in the heart of Maryvale—an answer to prayer, fueled by God’s provision and a divine partnership with Unidos en una Visión Church."