“A lot of people have gone further than they thought they could because someone else thought they could.” ~ Unknown

Make a difference and make a friend. Be a mentor.

Our Communities in Schools mentoring initiative offers students friendship with a purpose.

Think about where you are today. Now think about how you got here. Chances are there was someone special along the way who gave you a hand up. There were positive influences in your life that helped you with critical decisions. As mentor of 20 years, Juan Luna says, “I get a sense of trying to help people in the way I was helped.” Our communities, our parents, our teachers…our mentors help us become who we are.

The ordinary experiences of your everyday life have extraordinary meaning to someone. Sit with an at-risk student, and give your unconditional attention and time. For some, you may be the only adult who has ever provided this. Share your unique and rich perspective with a child through a one-on-one, long-term friendship that builds self-esteem and shapes positive choices. It may be through a personal connection to you that a child decides to stay in school.

How to become a mentor:

There is a special young person who is waiting to meet you. Becoming a mentor is a simple, rewarding way to give back to your community. Commit to 30 minutes once a week, during school hours and on a school campus. You choose the campus and the age of student with whom you’d like to work. Join the efforts of over 100 other community members. The process is simple:

• Complete a New Mentor Application or a Returning Mentor Application.
• Provide 2 references.
• Pass a criminal background check.
• Attend a training class to make your mentoring relationship a success.