Currently I am looking to build up my network, try to find a mentor, and learning how to find and finance those in my area.

It sure beats listening to the traffic radio on the commutes and there are great thought process starters and resource suggestions that pop out at me.I hope you connect with a local mentor soon, but if you have questions please feel free to connect or shoot me a message.  

Any suggestions on good ways for me to start investing, networking with other investors, mentors, etc?

Some of these events they might try to sell you into a mentoring program or try to sell you something else.

Should I just educate myself as much as possible and jump in or work with a mentor? 

In foreclosure, provided that subordinate lien and judgment holders are properly notified of the foreclosure, those junior positions should become extinguished as liens against the property.

On the other hand, they are within their rights to accelerate your loan upon any foreclosure action on a junior position regardless of who is who.  

I know I 'm going to have to put money out there to get help from someone to mentor me,  In my area, Woodland Hills, CA, it is not so easy finding a local REIA. 

I am guessing by the price they are mostly unsecured junior liens.  

Welcome to BP you have a wealth of resources at your finger tips, I too am an SA investor and am always looking for deals and mentors with a like minded concept.