Mass Mentoring Partnership Celebrates Successful Cheers! to Mentoring Event, Honoring Local Champions and Advancing the Mentoring Movement
Boston, MA — November 2025 — Mass Mentoring Partnership (MMP) proudly celebrated its annual Cheers! to Mentoring event on November 18, bringing together more than 250 supporters, stakeholders, program partners, and friends, raising over $286,000 in support of the transformative power of mentoring across Massachusetts. The event was held for the first time at Grace by Nia, a warm, immersive space to dine, connect, and be entertained, founded by restaurateur and local leader, Nia Grace, who offered welcome remarks during the evenings’ program.
The event served as a powerful affirmation of the statewide mentoring movement, highlighting the individuals and programs whose dedication ensures that young people have the caring, consistent support they need to thrive. During the evening’s program, MMP recognized three outstanding honorees.
In partnership with ALKU, the 2025 ALKU Scholarship (a $30,000 academic scholarship presented to a rising high school senior) was presented to Esmeilin Gonzalez, an extraordinary young woman whose resilience, dedication and commitment to herself and to the betterment of her community was witnessed and felt during the evening’s celebration.
Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell was named 2025 Champion of Mentoring – honored for her unwavering advocacy for youth and her leadership in expanding opportunities across the Commonwealth.
George Neble was named Mentoring Movement Champion, for his long-standing dedication to MMP, to strengthening youth-serving organizations, and uplifting the next generation.
The night emphasized the importance of continuing to strengthen the awareness and understanding of mentoring, and the role that it plays in building a future where all young people feel supported and are able to thrive.
“At MMP, we know mentoring is not just “nice to have.” It’s essential social care infrastructure. Every training, resource, and grant strengthens the relationships that help young people — from Boston to the Berkshires — feel connected, confident, and capable,” shared MMP’s President & CEO, Dr. Cynthia K. Orellana in her remarks.
MMP extends heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, program partners, and vendors whose contributions made the evening exceptional. Their talent, creativity, and generosity helped bring the spirit of mentorship to life throughout the celebration.
Featured partners included: DJ ReaL P, ¿Porque Puma? from Zumix, G.R.O.W. (Girls Running Our World), Nurys Camargo and her team from the Associated Industries of MA (AIM), the Boston Education Fund (BEDF), Artists for Humanity, Snapped Boston, Vania J. Arroyo Photography, The Corner 345 Photography, and Future Chefs. Their participation elevated the event experience and reflected the vibrant, collaborative community that supports youth mentoring across Massachusetts.