Thinking Forward: Why Mentorship Matters More Than Ever
If you’re anywhere near my age — somewhere in that sweet (and sometimes sour) spot called your 40s — chances are you’ve said it or heard it said:
“This younger generation just isn’t equipped.”
“They don’t have the work ethic we had.”
“Where’s their critical thinking?”
I hear it all the time. It’s easy to sit back, shake our heads, and wonder what the world will look like when “they’re” running it. But here’s a question that’s been rattling around in my mind lately:
If we (elders) are worried about the future, why aren’t we doing more to shape it?
Complaining Isn’t Mentoring
We love to talk about how things were “back when we were that age.” We had to problem-solve without Google. We navigated careers without social media. We built resilience by failing — a lot. And yet, in the same breath, many of us refuse to offer the kind of mentorship that helped us get here in the first place.
We forget that someone, somewhere along the way, did take time to guide us — a teacher, a boss, a colleague, a friend. Someone believed in us enough to answer a question, challenge our perspective, or open a door.
If we want the next generation to think more critically, communicate more clearly, and lead more confidently, we can’t just point out the gaps. We have to help them bridge them.
Mentorship Is Not One-Sided
Here’s the thing: mentorship isn’t just about helping “them.” It’s also about evolving us. Every time we explain a concept, share a lesson, or offer guidance, we sharpen our own understanding. We’re forced to articulate what we know and reflect on what’s changed since we learned it.
And often, we learn something in return — new ways of thinking, fresh approaches, different values. The exchange is mutually beneficial, but only if we’re willing to engage.
Are We Really as “Emotionally Mature” as We Think?
Here’s a tough pill: we like to think of ourselves as emotionally intelligent, seasoned adults. But if we’re too afraid to offer mentorship because we might get ignored or rejected — what does that say about us?
If we avoid mentoring because we think it will “take too much time,” what does that reveal about our priorities?
And if we truly believe that the next generation isn’t ready to lead, yet we make no effort to guide them, then we have to ask ourselves:
Are we part of the reason the future isn’t functioning the way we want it to?
The Call to Action: Step In, Don’t Step Back
The truth is, mentorship isn’t always glamorous. It’s not about being a hero or having all the answers. Sometimes it’s as simple as saying, “Here’s what I’ve learned — maybe it’ll help.” Sometimes it’s listening more than speaking. Sometimes it’s just showing up consistently.
But every single time, it matters.
The next time you’re tempted to complain about “kids these days,” pause and ask yourself:
Have I offered to guide any of them?
Have I shared my hard-earned lessons?
Have I modeled the behavior I wish I saw more of?
Because the future isn’t something we get to criticize from the sidelines — it’s something we help build. And the most powerful way we do that is by reaching back and lifting someone else forward.
How to Choose (and Make These Work for You)
Industry alignment matters. If your expertise is in energy, land, events, leadership development, etc., starting with programs like HAPL or SITE Texas may give the best "match" in domain knowledge.
Time commitment and structure. Some programs are short cycles (3–6 months), others are broader. Be honest about how much time you can give.
Geographic flexibility. Many of these are local to Dallas, Houston, or major Texas metros. If you’re outside those, you might need to focus on virtual or statewide programs (like TEW or SITE) or hybrid options.
Open membership vs. closed membership. Some (like WEN or ATD) require you to be a member to participate. Others are more open.
Start small, scale up. You don’t have to take on multiple mentees right away. Try one pair for a cycle and see how it feels.
Here are several mentorship or mentoring-adjacent programs around Denton, TX (or affiliated with institutions in Denton) you or others can tap into — whether to mentor or be mentored:
Denton ISD Volunteer & Mentor Program
If you want to mentor K–12 youth in your community, Denton ISD offers a formal one-on-one mentor program for students, matching community volunteers with mentees who need support, confidence, and consistent presence.Big Brothers Big Sisters of Denton
The local chapter pairs adults with children in the community to build a trusting, caring mentor relationship over time. It’s a strong option if you want to make an impact with younger students in Denton County.G-Force (UNT Outreach)
This is more of a college & high school mentorship / tutoring program, helping students navigate higher education, college applications, financial aid, and academic support. If you have experience in those areas, you could serve as a mentor.Mean Green Mentors (UNT Alumni / Career Center)
If you are (or were) affiliated with UNT, you can connect with students or alumni via this program to give career & professional guidance. It allows alumni to list their skills/interests and be matched with mentees.TWU G-Force / Mentor Programs (First-Generation Students)
Through Texas Woman’s University, there’s a mentorship program for work-study and first-generation students, where mentors help with things like career readiness, navigating school, and financial aid.TWU Center for Student Leadership – Mentoring
The CSL at TWU connects students with different mentor formats: peer mentors, alumni mentors, virtual mentors, etc.CERESA Mentorship & Networking (City of Denton)
The City of Denton provides programs for professional female mentorship and networking via CERESA, with structured curriculum and external matching.United Way / Pathways HOPE Coach (Denton County)
Through United Way’s volunteer programs in Denton County, one such role is that of a “HOPE Coach,” acting as a mentor to youth in the DCFOF (Denton County Friends of the Family) program.