JOIN THE GOLD STAR YOUTH MENTORSHIP PROGRAM
Each spring, wear blue hosts the transformative Gold Star Youth Mentorship Program (GSYMP), designed to foster wellness, belonging, and connection within the military community.
Empowering Surviving Youth
Through mentorship, active remembrance, and meaningful connection, school-age youth who have lost a parent or sibling to military service gain:
Confidence
Personal growth
A sense of identity within the Gold Star and Military communities
How Does it Work?
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Joint Base Lewis McChord (DuPont, Washington Region)
Fort Carson (Colorado Springs, Colorado Region)
Joint Base San Antonio (San Antonio, Texas Region)
Fort Campbell (Fort Campbell, Kentucky Region)
Fort Liberty (Fayetteville, North Carolina Region)
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Mentors: Active duty or recently transitioned service members capable of meeting physical and program standards, including a background check and training.
Youth: Gold Star and surviving youth (K-12) who have lost a parent or sibling due to military service, with all abilities welcome. Youth must commit to the program and complete an interview.
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The Gold Star Youth Mentorship Program carefully pairs youth mentees with mentors based on shared interests, hobbies, and military connections, ensuring that each match is driven by the child’s priorities. Through this personalized approach, mentors empower mentees by fostering active coping mechanisms, providing positive encouragement, and nurturing healthy connections to a life influenced by military service.
To ensure the highest level of support and guidance, mentors undergo an extensive screening process, including a federal background check and a one-on-one interview. Together, mentees and mentors build meaningful, supportive relationships that honor and navigate the unique experiences of military families.
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Saturday runs and mentoring activities last approximately three hours, beginning at 9:00 am.
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Each participant will receive training, wear blue apparel, opportunities to participate in additional fun sponsor events, and memories to last a lifetime.
*Youth mentees will receive a new pair of running shoes.
“My mentee taught me so much about resiliency, laughter, perseverance, and optimism. I feel selfish that I probably gained more from our time together than she did. She was the best part of my week every week. This program made me a better person.”
Mentor
Beyond the Program Season
Participants will stay connected through quarterly team-building activities, nurturing a long-lasting sense of community.
Whether as a military mentor, youth mentee, or community supporter, we invite you to join this impactful program.
Registration is open now through March 15th. Don’t miss this opportunity to honor, grow, and connect.
Be Part of the GSYMP Family
Support the Program
The Gold Star Youth Mentorship Program is generously funded and supported by corporate sponsorship, strategic partners, and individuals committed to children who have lost a parent or sibling due to military service.
