Words of wisdom
Curated by Monica Blanco — January 20, 2026
“A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.” — Oprah Winfrey
Peer Mentoring Guide
Curated by Monica Blanco — January 20, 2026
Written by former peer mentors and mentees, this downloadable guide provides practical advice for youth, mentors, and program organizers to build healthy, effective peer mentoring relationships that support young people. Read More
Report: California’s peer-to-peer mental health support program shows gains
Curated by Monica Blanco — January 20, 2026
California’s Peer-to-Peer Youth Mental Health pilot is showing early signs of success, with students reporting improved well-being and greater comfort discussing mental health with trained peers. The program highlights the potential of peer support to reduce stigma, strengthen school communities, and build leadership skills among youth mentors. For those interested in the detailed data, click […]
National Mentoring Toolkits
Curated by Monica Blanco — January 20, 2026
Most research on youth mentoring programs has focused on outcomes for the young people being mentored, with much less attention given to the effects on mentors themselves or on others connected to the mentoring relationship, such as parents, teachers, and program staff. Read on to learn more about potential benefits such as cultural humility, perspective […]
The Circle of Life – Song – Lion King 2019
Curated by Monica Blanco — January 16, 2026
Having just attended the Broadway performance of The Lion King, I was struck all over again by the power of “Circle of Life.” The opening number, with its soaring vocals, stunning visuals, and intricate stagecraft, brings to life the interconnectedness of all living things and the natural cycles that shape life. Experiencing this live performance […]
Happy New Year and Best Wishes to All from the YDN Team
Curated by YDN Team — January 6, 2026
A new year invites us to begin again with fresh questions, renewed energy, and a shared commitment to what’s possible. As we step into this next chapter, we’re excited to continue building spaces where people are seen, strengths are activated, and leadership emerges at every level. Thank you for being part of a community that […]
Happy Holidays!
Curated by YDN Team — December 22, 2025
As we close out another year, we want to pause and say thank you. Your partnership, trust, and shared commitment to creating environments where people are valued and encouraged to grow made 2025 a meaningful year for us. Together, we created spaces rooted in connection, curiosity, and possibility; spaces where youth and adults alike could […]
Words of Wisdom
Curated by Adrian Ruiz — December 9, 2025
“I’m not saying that I’m gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.” -Tupac Shakur
10 Ways to Check In On Your Friends Mental Health
Curated by Adrian Ruiz — December 9, 2025
Do me a favor, please. This Holiday Season, check in on your friends and let them know you are thinking of them. This season can be trying for so many people as they deal with sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and stress.
Sacramento Stages give the gift of live theater this December
Curated by Adrian Ruiz — December 9, 2025
A giant hug goes out to all of the wonderful venues and artists of Sacramento who are bringing the arts and theater to life this Holiday Season. Here is a great list of plays currently showing in our community.
Top Five Albums of 2025
Curated by Adrian Ruiz — December 9, 2025
Here are the five albums that brought me the most joy in 2025. Enjoy!
The songs, movies, books, and LEGO builds that brought me the most joy in 2025
Curated by Adrian Ruiz — December 9, 2025
For my last Too Dope Not To Share Tuesday installment of 2025 I would like to share with you songs, movies, books, and LEGO builds that brought me the most joy in 2025. Check them out this Holiday Season if you get the chance and please share your favorites with me as well!