MENTOR statement on the passing of Senator John McCain
Senator John McCain was a mentor in every sense of the word and so many of his colleagues have used the word “mentor” when describing his role in their public service careers. He knew that young people benefit from positive connection, that caring adults can provide critical support, and that there is little as powerful as listening when a young person expresses their doubts, concerns, or fears. He was a leader in strengthening and supporting mentoring for young people across the country, both in policy and in practice. He was the first guest speaker to step up at our first-ever Mentoring Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill, championed legislation and reached across the aisle to ensure mentoring programs have access to the best safety tools. He elevated mentoring as a national cause by leading the charge to celebrate National Mentoring Month. He recognized and valued the role of adult mentors in his life, particularly during his time at school and while in the Navy.
He walked the walk. That’s the kind of leader he was: Full of heart, integrity, and love of country. We and the mentoring movement are so grateful for his leadership, partnership, and vision.
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