Katy ISD celebrated three decades of building trust and forging invaluable student/mentor relationships at its Keep Encouraging Youth toward Success (KEYS) Mentoring Kickoff and 30th Anniversary Celebration on September 12.

The Merrell Center, 6301 S. Stadium Lane in Katy, hosted about 275 attendees for a training and celebration reception that brought together longtime mentors and new ones for a great cause.

“For decades, KEYS has connected caring adults with Katy ISD students who need an extra champion,” Katy ISD Executive Director of Community Partnerships Karen Lewis said. “As we celebrate 30 years of mentoring, we’re inspired by the thousands of relationships that have already changed lives.”

The KEYS Kickoff offered mentors a choice of four different breakout sessions led by subject matter experts, including a roundtable that brought together veterans and newcomers to swap stories, share advice and listen. The KEYS Mentoring program, offered by Katy ISD Partners in Education, pairs a caring adult with a student for one hour each week during the school year. Through this supportive relationship, students develop confidence and skills to succeed in school and beyond. Katy ISD encourages community members, parents, partners and employees interested in making a difference to apply for mentorship opportunities at www.tinyurl.com/keysapp.

“As we look to the future, we know there are countless young people who still need that connection,” Lewis said. “We’re actively recruiting mentors who are ready to make a difference.”