Right now, young people are navigating more pressure, noise, and change than ever—and the adults and systems around them can’t afford to work in silos. Our response has to be clear: build stronger relationships and more coordinated support.

The 2026 West Coast Mentoring Conference is a virtual convening co-hosted by MENTOR California and MENTOR Washington, proud members of the MENTOR Affiliate Network. We’re bringing together mentoring providers, educators, school districts, youth-serving organizations, mental health partners, workforce leaders, funders, and policymakers to strengthen relationship-centered practices and create pathways that help young people thrive across every part of their lives.

This year’s theme—Heart of the Game, Beyond the Game—invites us to think about “the game” as the game of life. Sports and youth culture are an entry point, but the focus is broader: how young people build identity, belonging, confidence, and resilience—and how adults help connect opportunities across school, community, and future careers. We’ll explore what it takes to create environments where youth feel seen and supported, and where support doesn’t end when a season ends, a program ends, or graduation happens.

Together, we’ll highlight practical strategies for belonging and mental wellness, healing-centered and culturally responsive mentoring, and cross-sector partnerships that strengthen outcomes—from attendance and graduation to postsecondary success and workforce development, including career-connected mentoring, networks, and life design.

Connection is the strategy.