SCHOOL-BASED MENTORING

Overview

Our School-Based Mentoring Program brings the power of mentorship directly to local schools, making it easy and accessible for Littles and Bigs to build strong, supportive relationships. Bigs meet with their Littles once a week during the school day—typically during lunch or free periods—to talk, play games, read together, or simply check in.

This simple, consistent time together helps boost a child’s confidence, improve their social-emotional skills, and increase their connection to school.

 

Why School-Based Mentoring Works

• Built Into the School Day: No need for transportation or outside scheduling. Littles stay on campus, and Bigs work with the school’s schedule.

• Consistent Support: Weekly visits provide a sense of routine and stability.

• Safe, Supervised Environment: Meetings happen in a familiar, structured setting.

• Low Time Commitment, Big Impact: Just one hour a week can make a lifelong difference.

 

Who It’s For

Littles:

• Elementary and middle and high school students who would benefit from additional support, encouragement, and connection.

• Referred by teachers, counselors, or parents.

Bigs:

• Volunteers 19+ who can commit to 1 hour a week during the school year.

• Perfect for college students, working professionals with flexible hours, or retirees.

 

What Bigs and Littles Do Together

• Eat lunch

• Play board games or do puzzles

• Talk about school, goals, or life

• Read books

• Work on basic school skills

• Just be present and listen

No tutoring required—just friendship and encouragement.

 

FAQs: 

Q: Can I choose the school I volunteer at?
We work with your location, availability, and preferences to find the best fit. Our school partners are across Mobile, Baldwin, Monroe, Jackson, and Hancock Counties.

 

Q: Do I need experience working with kids or in education?
Nope! All you need is a willingness to show up and be consistent. We’ll provide training, resources, and ongoing support.

 

Q: What happens if school is out or I’m unavailable one week?
We understand that schedules change. We encourage Bigs to communicate with their Match Specialist and try to reschedule when possible. Consistency matters, but flexibility is part of life.

 

Q: Can I mentor more than one student?
Many Bigs choose to focus on one match at a time, but we do have opportunities to grow your impact if you’re interested. Let’s talk!

 

Q: How long is the commitment?
We ask for at least one school year, but many matches continue for multiple years—and those long-term relationships are the most impactful.

 

Ready to Start?

You can change a child’s day—and future—with just one hour a week.

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