2017 marks the 15th anniversary of National Mentoring Month's launch in 2002. Since then, each January has served as an annual kickoff of the widespread movement to connect more of the nation's young people with caring adult mentors.

On this day, the beginning of the new year, we pledge to forge a new tomorrow with all our hearts and minds. We have confidence in the greater good of the work we do with and for one another, for the community and for OUR PEOPLE.

Our history of oppression has generated a unique creativity that strengthens us for the struggle ahead. Through our music, art, and song, we gain power to face tomorrow. So, despite our struggle we can sing --Lift Every Voice And Sing

Our purpose may not be carved in stone, but we can focus our thoughts, our words, our actions, and our habits into making a difference every day within the African American community.

The economic health of our communities depends upon cooperative participation in the support of Black-owned businesses. When we support Black-owned businesses in our communities, it is a win-win for all of us.

Ujima (ooh-GEE-mah) is the third day of Kwanzaa and means "collective work and responsibility." On this day we reaffirm that together we must build the good world we want and deserve to live in, and that we must share the good we cultivate and harvest together. It speaks of an ethics of work, responsibility, and sharing of the good of our community with society and the world.