CONTRIBUTED — With the deadline less than three months away, tnAchieves needs an additional 5,000 volunteer mentors across the state to support TN Promise applicants from the Class of 2020. Locally, Carter County needs 35 mentors to meet student demand.

Mentors spend one hour a month assisting students as they transition from high school to college. They remind students of important deadlines, serve as a trusted college resource and, most importantly, encourage students to reach their full potential.

TN Promise, in partnership with tnAchieves, allows every graduating high school senior the opportunity to attend a community or technical college, as well as several universities, tuition free with mentor support. Many of the students that apply for the scholarship will be the first in their family to attend college and mentors work with students to overcome barriers that previously prevented students from accessing higher education.

“We understand that navigating the college-going process can be very challenging,” said tnAchieves Deputy Director of Partnerships, Graham Thomas. “Mentors serve as a resource for students and their families in a process that may contain many unknowns. Understanding that someone is available to answer questions and walk this journey with them can be very impactful for students.”

Potential mentors must be 21 years of age, are subject to a background check and complete a onehour training. For more information or to apply, you can visit www.tnachieves.org or contact tnAchieves Deputy Director of Outreach Graham Thomas at (615) 604-1306 or graham@tnachieves.org.