The COMMIT Foundation–January 30, 2024

As we close out National Mentor Appreciation Month, we at The COMMIT Foundation want to take a moment to highlight the incredible mentors who make our mission possible. Our workshops—held across the country—are designed to help those who have served and their spouses navigate their next chapter with confidence. But what truly sets these experiences apart is the wisdom, guidance, and genuine investment of our mentors.

These mentors don’t just show up; they pour themselves into the process. They take time away from their demanding careers and personal lives to teach, guide, and expand the networks of those we serve. Many of them are former COMMIT fellows—individuals who once sat on the other side of the table, asking the same questions and facing the same uncertainties. Having walked this path before, they return as mentors to ensure others don’t have to navigate transformation alone.

Choosing the Right Mentors for Each Workshop

Selecting the right mentors for each workshop is a process we take seriously. Every event is carefully curated to ensure that the mentors align with the needs of the fellows in the room.

From the very first outreach text or email, we consider factors such as industry expertise, leadership experience, and, most importantly, the ability to connect with and empower those who have served and their spouses. Our goal is to create a dynamic room filled with those who can inspire, challenge, and open doors for our fellows—because mentorship is not just about giving advice; it’s about investing in potential.

Each workshop follows a structured flow:

Before the Workshop – Our team works diligently to match mentors with the right cohort. We ensure that every mentor understands our mission, their role in the process, and what they can expect. This preparation phase lays the foundation for meaningful conversations and impactful connections.

During the Workshop – Mentors and Fellows engage in deep, honest conversations about career paths, leadership, and personal growth. The mentors don’t dictate; they listen. They help Fellows clarify their goals, challenge limiting beliefs, and provide real-world insight that transforms and feels more like an opportunity than a challenge.

After the Workshop – The relationships built don’t end when the workshop ends. Many mentors continue to support their Fellows, offering guidance long after the event. Some mentors even become lifelong advocates, helping Fellows navigate career changes, find meaningful work, and expand their networks in ways they never thought possible.

More Than a Workshop—A Lifelong Commitment

What makes our mentors extraordinary is their unwavering belief in the Fellows. They don’t participate for recognition or personal gain; they do it because they care. They see the untapped potential in each person, and they know the power of a single conversation, a well-placed connection, or a word of encouragement at the right moment.

For many, mentoring at a COMMIT workshop isn’t just a one-time experience—it’s the beginning of a lifelong relationship. They remain part of our community, investing in the success of others just as someone once invested in them.

So, as National Mentor Appreciation Month comes to a close, we want to extend our deepest gratitude to the mentors who make our workshops what they are. Thank you for believing in our mission, but most importantly, thank you for believing in those we serve. Your guidance, generosity, and commitment change lives—one conversation at a time.

If a mentor has impacted you, take a moment to thank them. If you’re interested in becoming a mentor at one of our future workshops, we’d love to hear from you. At COMMIT, we know that when one person succeeds, we all succeed!