This Black History Month, we're reflecting on the role that mentors and mentoring programs play in the celebration of Black History, the empowerment of Black Youth Voices, and the affirmation of Black Lives. As adults, we all have the opportunity to co-create solutions and spaces that best empower Black youth and recognize the powerful role they are already playing in shaping future generations. An understanding of Black History and a celebration of the contributions Black people have and are making is central to an equitable path forward. We've gathered resources to help mentors and mentoring programs celebrate/explore Black History and affirm Black Lives this month and every month.
Above, check out key takeaways from
MENTOR's Black Youth Town Hall.
The Power of Youth Challenge provides young people (ages 13-19) across the U.S. with the opportunity to identify a need in their communities related to racial healing and apply for a $250 grant to support a (COVID-safe) youth-designed and youth-led service project. Project ideas are due by 4/30!
Upcoming Opportunities
An Evening with Jason Reynolds and Dr. Kendi
Wed. 2/17 @ 7 - 8 pm

Youth + adults are encouraged to join this discussion on “Stamped: Racism, Antiracism and You,” a young adult adaptation of Dr. Kendi’s “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America.”
Mentorship Matters
Applications due 3/1!

Mentorship Matters is an intensive year-long mentorship program with a simple goal: to help place emerging writers of color inside television writers rooms, and change the landscape of who gets to tell stories in the media industry.
Join Our Antiracism Working Group
Sign Up by 2/16!

This group will provide a brave space for reflection and growth around topics related to privilege, racism, and equity. The group is open to any staff member of a mentoring program who holds white privilege. Learn more and register below!
4-H Game Changineer Coding Club
Tuesdays between 2/23 & 3/30 from 4 - 5 pm

This is a free, 6-week, virtual club open to middle and high-school students. No prior programming knowledge needed! Participants will learn about and create video games and the AI behind popular video games like Downhill Ski, Pacman, Target Kick, & Donkey Kong!
March Community Coffee Hour
Wed. 3/10 @ 9 - 10 am

Grab your coffee/tea, and join your mentoring program peers and MENTOR Virginia for Community Coffee Hour! In March, we will be discussing Strategies for Ongoing Mentor Training + Support.
Internet Access Survey

VPOST is conducting a survey on Internet Access Needs of OST Programs. This short survey will only take a few minutes and will provide valuable information that will be used in efforts to increase internet access for Virginia’s OST programs and the youth, families, and communities served. You will be automatically entered to win a $150 Amazon gift card!
Now Accepting Applications to Host an AmeriCorps VISTA!
Could your mentoring program benefit from having a volunteer who works full-time for 12 months to develop organizational systems and drive improved youth outcomes? MENTOR Virginia is currently accepting applications from Virginia-based organizations looking to host a VISTA Member during the 2021-2022 service year. Check out what current VISTA Members are working on to get a better idea of what a VISTA might be able accomplish with your mentoring program.
 
Applications are due February 26, 2021! 
Funding Opportunities
Applications for Federal Mentoring Grant Funds 

The Office of Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention is currently the only source of federal funding to support mentoring programs. Their funding opportunities for FY 2021 are open and accepting applications.
Collective 365 Grant

Collective 365 is a membership-based group of individuals who contribute their resources to make a big impact. Collective 365 seeks to provide grant funding and capacity building to individuals, businesses, groups, and/or nonprofits who are doing the work with and for Black & Brown communities in DC, MD, and/or VA. Applications are now open and are due by March 1, 2021.
Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth Tobacco Prevention Funding
 
Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth has announced a new round of three-year Tobacco Prevention funding. Contract Period: July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2024. A total of up to $8,280,000 is available over three years ($2,760,000 annually) to prevent and reduce youth tobacco, nicotine, and vaping product use across Virginia. Online proposals are due by March 22, 2021 (5:00 pm).
STAY CONNECTED

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