Become a Mentor
Take Stock in Children was established in 1995 as a non-profit organization in Florida that provides a unique opportunity for deserving, low-income youth to escape the cycle of poverty through education. We offer underserved students one-on-one support through caring volunteer mentors, professional college success services, the opportunity to earn a college scholarship, and hope for success in college, career, and life.
We would be honored to have you mentor with us. Please complete the form below or print and return the downloadable form above to become a mentor and help. Thank you for your interest.
Have a question?
How is your program different from other mentoring programs at BDS?
Our program is unique in several ways. First, we only serve high school students. Students entering our program have met robust standards for grades, attendance, behavior and financial need. Another element that sets us apart from other programs is our commitment from the families of our students; FAMILIES sign contracts to formally enter our program and they WANT their child to be in the TSIC program. As part of that contract, Bay Ed agrees to provide mentoring and wrap-around services, and the families agree to maintain specific standards around grades, attendance, and behavior. Finally, as part of the state of Florida requirements, every student in the TSIC program must meet with their mentor twice per month and this metric is documented and reported to the state of Florida. No other mentoring program in BDS is required to report mentoring or student performance to the state.
What is the commitment from the Mentor?
Mentoring sessions are two visits per month at 30 minutes each. Mentoring can occur at school or through a provided APP via a video call or text chat. In-person visits happen during lunch. Mentors set up the schedule and mentors choose the school. A mentor orientation and mentor toolkit is provided. Students are 9th grade and up and have met specific criteria for GPA, financial need, attendance, and behavior. Bay Ed Staff engage together with Mentors to reach student success. Students who complete the high school program requirements earn a post-secondary scholarship. Co-mentoring and Team/Group mentoring options are also available.
What does a mentor do?
Mentors are an adult who is invested in helping a student. Mentors are a caring role model focused on the development of life skills and academic success. Mentors listen without judgement. Mentors pay attention to their mentee. Mentors don’t lecture, but they do offer advice when asked. Mentors respect a mentee’s viewpoint but can offer real-world perspectives.
How can I get involved?
Simply complete the New Mentor Application and then watch a training video we send you. You’ll also need to pass a background check and grab your badge, and then you’re ready to go. Additional training is offered through the Bay Ed office, but not required.
Current Mentor Information
Take Stock in Children’s premier mentor app allows mentors to log sessions and communicate with their students. Students can confirm session dates and interact with their mentor and TSIC Affiliate Program in a secure and live environment.
For additional information visit Take Stock in Children’s website at:
